A fractured collarbone, also known as a clavicle fracture, is a common injury that occurs when the bone connecting the breastbone to the shoulder blade breaks. This injury often results from a direct blow to the shoulder, a fall onto an outstretched arm, or a car accident. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected arm.

Treatment for a fractured collarbone depends on the severity of the break. In many cases, conservative treatment involving a sling or figure-eight brace to immobilize the arm and allow the bone to heal naturally is sufficient. Pain management, ice application, and gradual physical therapy are also part of the recovery process.

For more severe fractures or those that don’t heal properly with conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary. This typically involves using plates, screws, or pins to realign and stabilize the bone fragments.

Recovery time varies but generally takes 6-12 weeks. During this period, it’s crucial to follow medical advice, attend follow-up appointments, and gradually increase arm movement as directed by healthcare professionals. Complications, though rare, can include malunion (improper healing), nonunion (failure to heal), or damage to surrounding nerves or blood vessels.