A broken collarbone, also known as a clavicle fracture, is a common injury that occurs when the collarbone, which connects the breastbone to the shoulder blade, breaks. Treatment depends on the severity of the fracture and may include wearing a sling, pain management, physical therapy, or surgery. Recovery time can vary, but most people can resume normal activities within a few weeks to a few months. It's important to follow your doctor's advice and avoid activities that may aggravate the injury while it heals.

Common causes of a broken collarbone include:

• Falls, such as falling onto your shoulder or onto your outstretched hand.
• Sports injuries, such as a direct blow to your shoulder on the field, rink or court.
• Vehicle trauma from a car, motorcycle or bike accident.
• Birth injury from passing through the birth canal.

Restricting the movement of any broken bone is critical to healing. To immobilize a broken collarbone, you'll likely need to wear an arm sling.

How long immobilization is needed depends on the severity of the injury. Bone union usually takes three to six weeks for children and six to 12 weeks for adults. A newborn's collarbone that breaks during delivery typically heals with only pain control and careful handling of the baby.

Medications

To reduce pain and inflammation, your doctor might recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever. If you have severe pain, you might need a prescription medication that contains a narcotic for a few days.

Therapy

Rehabilitation begins soon after initial treatment. In most cases, it's important to begin some motion to minimize stiffness in your shoulder while you're still wearing your sling. After your sling is removed, your doctor might recommend additional rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy to restore muscle strength, joint motion and flexibility.

Surgery

Surgery might be required if the fractured collarbone has broken through your skin, is severely displaced or is in several pieces. Broken collarbone surgery usually includes placing fixation devices — plates, screws or rods — to maintain proper position of your bone during healing. Surgical complications, though rare, can include infection and lack of bone healing.