Clavicle Background

The clavicle bone is the flat bone that crosses the top of a person's chest. The clavicles help to transmit force from the arm to the axial skeleton. The collar bone is a long bone, but one that lacks bone marrow. It allows the maximum range of motion for the arm. The clavicles keep the scapulae in place. The collar bone can be easily seen in some people.

Broken Clavicle

A broken clavicle is an easy injury to develop since there is only a layer of skin that prevents a broken collar bone from developing. A broken clavicle is the most common fracture that is treated in an emergency room. A new born may experience a broken collarbone during childbirth, although children, adolescents, and athletes have an increased risk of breaking their clavicles.

Clavicle Pain

Clavicle pain often accompanies a fractured collarbone. Collar bone pain may be made worse by moving the arm connected to the injured collar bone, although it is also possible that the pain may be constant. Collar bone pain may not require movement since the arm hanging down can exert constant strain on the bone. Treating collar bone pain or a broken clavicle involves using a sling to immobilize the arm.