A collarbone, also known as a clavicle, is a long, thin bone located at the base of the front of the neck. There are two collarbones, one on each side of the body. They connect the breastbone (sternum) to the shoulder blades (scapulae), acting as a crucial link between the arm and the rest of the body.
Anatomy and Function
- Location: The collarbone sits horizontally across the upper chest, connecting the sternum and the scapula. It's the only long bone in the body that lies horizontally. (Wikipedia)
- Connection: It plays a vital role in connecting the arm to the body, facilitating a wide range of motion. (Cleveland Clinic)
- Structure: A thin, S-shaped bone.
Common Issues
- Fractures (Broken Collarbone): A common injury, often caused by falls or direct impact. Symptoms include pain (worsened by shoulder movement), swelling, bruising, and sometimes, visible deformity. Treatment often involves immobilization with a sling or figure-of-8 bandage. (Mayo Clinic, AAOS, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Nemours, Mass General )
- Other Conditions: While fractures are most common, other conditions can affect the collarbone.
Treatment of Fractures
Most broken collarbones heal well with conservative treatment, such as:
- Ice
- Arm support (sling)
- Pain medication
- Physical therapy exercises (post-healing)
