A broken collarbone is a break in the clavicle, the bone in your upper chest that connects your breastbone (sternum) to part of your shoulder blade (scapula). A broken collarbone is also known as a fractured clavicle.

How does it occur?

A broken collarbone can occur in several ways. You may fall on your outstretched arm and hand, you may fall on your shoulder, or you may be hit directly in the collarbone.

What are the symptoms?

You will have pain and swelling at the area of the break. It will be difficult to move your arm or shoulder. You may have heard a crack at the time of the injury.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will examine your collarbone and find tenderness and swelling. An x-ray will show a fracture.

How is it treated?

To ease your discomfort, your collarbone may be immobilized in a "figure 8" splint or brace that holds your shoulders back (as if you were standing at attention). Your arm may be placed in a sling. It may take 6 to 12 weeks for your clavicle to heal.