The clavicle is often damaged in a similar fashion to the Acromioclavicular joint , from falling directly onto the shoulder, or being driven onto the shoulder in contact sports.  It can also be fractured from a direct blow to the bone. There are pivotal arteries, veins and nerves that travel behind the clavicle, so it is important to be assessed by a medical provider if you suspect injury.  Diagnosis is usually confirmed via x-ray, and recovery depends on the injury.  If it is a non-displaced fracture, the arm will often be immobilized to allow the bone to heal.  If it is displaced, your doctor may choose to perform surgery to secure the bone together to allow for healing. The clavicle helps to make up the sternoclavicular joint, and acromioclavicular joint, which can become restricted from immobilization while it heals.

The therapist here at PPT will assess joint mobility, as well as the function of the surrounding joints and musculature to determine impairments.  Once determined, they will devise a plan of care for optimal recovery, and return to sport. 

Associated symptoms:

• Shoulder pain
• Decreased range of motion
• Difficulty lifting arm
• Neck pain
• Shoulder blade pain
• Swelling 
• Pain lying on the affected side