Understanding Clavicle Anatomy and Function

Orthopedics

Published Date: 04-10-2024 Updated Date: 07-10-2026

Written by Medicover Team

Medically reviewed by Dr R D Chakravarty, Director - Institute of Orthopedic and Robotic Joint Replacements

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The clavicle, commonly called the collarbone, is an important bone that connects the arm to the rest of the body. It helps support the shoulder and allows the arm to move freely.

Clavicle injuries are common, especially after falls, sports injuries or direct blows to the shoulder. Understanding the clavicle, common problems, and available treatments can help you recognise when you may need medical care.

What is the Clavicle?

The clavicle is a slender, S-shaped bone located between the breastbone (sternum) and the shoulder blade (scapula). There is one clavicle on each side of the body. It connects the shoulder to the chest and helps keep the shoulder positioned properly. Because it lies close to the skin, you can easily feel the clavicle.

Anatomy of the Clavicle

The clavicle has three main parts:

Medial or sternal end: Connects to the sternum at the sternoclavicular joint.
Lateral or acromial end: Connects to the scapula at the acromioclavicular (AC) joint.
Shaft: The long middle portion between the two ends.

Several muscles and ligaments attach to the clavicle and help support shoulder movement and stability.

Function of the Clavicle

The clavicle has several important functions:

Supports the shoulder: It helps hold the shoulder away from the chest and allows a wide range of arm movement.
Helps protect important structures: It provides some protection to nerves and blood vessels that pass from the neck toward the arm.
Provides muscle attachment: Several muscles involved in shoulder and arm movement attach to the clavicle.

Common Clavicle Injuries

Clavicle injuries can happen after a fall, sports injury, road accident or direct blow to the shoulder. Common problems include fractures and injuries to the joints around the clavicle.

Clavicle Fracture

A clavicle fracture means the collarbone has broken. It commonly occurs after a fall directly onto the shoulder or an impact to the collarbone.

Common symptoms include:

Pain and tenderness around the collarbone
Swelling or bruising
Difficulty moving the arm
A visible bump or change in the shape of the collarbone

A healthcare professional should evaluate a suspected clavicle fracture. Healthcare professionals commonly use an X-ray to confirm the injury.

Clavicle Dislocation

The clavicle connects with the sternum and shoulder blade through joints. Injuries to these joints can cause the bones to move out of their normal position. For example, an AC joint injury can occur after a fall or direct blow to the shoulder. It may cause pain, swelling, tenderness and difficulty moving the arm. Treatment depends on the injury's severity.

Strains and Sprains

Strains affect muscles or tendons, while sprains affect ligaments. These injuries around the shoulder and collarbone area can happen because of sudden movements, overuse or trauma. Pain, tenderness and swelling may occur depending on the severity of the injury.

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Clavicle Pain Causes

Pain around the collarbone can have several causes. Some common ones include:

Fracture: A broken clavicle can cause sudden and significant pain.
Joint problems: Arthritis or injuries affecting the sternoclavicular or AC joint can cause pain and stiffness.
Muscle or ligament injuries: Strains and sprains around the shoulder can cause pain near the clavicle.
Injury or overuse: Repeated shoulder movements or a direct blow can cause pain and tenderness.

A physical examination can usually determine the exact cause of clavicle pain and, when needed, imaging tests can help.

Clavicle Repair and Treatment

Treatment depends on the injury type and severity. Many clavicle injuries can be treated without surgery.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Depending on the injury, treatment may include:

Rest and immobilisation: A sling may be used to support the arm and reduce movement while the injury heals.
Pain relief: A healthcare professional may recommend medicines to help control pain.
Physical therapy: Once healing has progressed, exercises can help restore shoulder movement, strength and flexibility.

Surgical Treatments

Some severe clavicle fractures or joint injuries may require surgery. One common procedure is Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF). During this procedure, the surgeon places the bone back into the correct position and holds it in place with plates and screws. Surgery may also be considered when a fracture has certain complications or does not heal properly.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery depends on the type of injury, its severity and the person’s overall health. A broken clavicle often takes several weeks to heal, although complete recovery can take longer. Your doctor may recommend exercises or physiotherapy as healing progresses. Avoid returning to sports, heavy lifting or strenuous activities until your healthcare provider says it is safe.

Preventing Clavicle Injuries

Not every clavicle injury can be prevented, but some steps can lower the risk:

Wear appropriate protective equipment during sports.
Use seat belts while travelling in a vehicle.
Strengthen the shoulder and upper-body muscles.
Follow proper techniques during exercise and sports.
Take care when participating in activities where falls or collisions are possible.

Conclusion

The clavicle, or collarbone, helps connect the shoulder to the chest and plays an important role in shoulder movement and stability.

Fractures and injuries around the clavicle are common, particularly after falls or direct impacts. Treatment may involve rest, a sling, pain management and physiotherapy. Some severe injuries may require surgery.

If you have significant collarbone pain, swelling, deformity or difficulty moving your arm after an injury, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the anatomy of the clavicle?

The clavicle, or collarbone, is an S-shaped bone that connects the sternum to the shoulder blade (scapula). It lies horizontally across the upper chest.

2. What is the function of the clavicle?

The clavicle supports the shoulder and helps the arm move freely. It also helps keep the shoulder positioned away from the chest.

3. What are common causes of clavicle fractures?

Falls, direct blows to the shoulder, sports injuries and road accidents are common causes of clavicle fractures.

4. What causes clavicle pain?

Clavicle pain can result from a fracture, joint injury, arthritis, muscle or ligament injury, or overuse. The cause depends on the symptoms and the type of injury.

5. What are common clavicle injuries?

A clavicle fracture and injuries to the joints around the clavicle are common problems. These may cause pain, swelling, tenderness and difficulty moving the arm.