Joint · Neck & shoulder · Clavicle

Collarbone pain

Common at this spot

Ordered by how common, not by search volume.

1. Clavicle fracture

   The collarbone swells and hurts too much to lift the arm

   Get help right away if

   Go to A&E if the shoulder has changed shape, if it swells very fast, if the bone is poking through the skin, if there is heavy bleeding, or if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, or cough up blood.

   Why it happens

   The collarbone is broken. It usually happens with an injury to the shoulder.

   How it feels

   • It hurts a lot
   • Swelling or bruising
   • The shape has changed
   • Sometimes the bone pokes through the skin

   How long it usually lasts

   Adults usually heal in 6 to 8 weeks, children in 3 to 4. The sling is usually worn for 2 to 3 weeks.

   When to see a doctor

   Get advice if the shoulder is very painful, badly swollen, or you cannot use your arm normally.

   Source: NHS (UK)

2. AC joint separation

   The tip of the shoulder feels raised and hurts when reaching across the body

3. Subclavius tightness

   Under the collarbone is stiff and pain spreads to the front of the shoulder

4. Distal clavicular osteolysis

   The collarbone end at the shoulder feels raw after pushing exercises

5. Clavicle contusion

   The collarbone bruises and hurts from a bag strap alone

Point at it on the body →

Nearby

• Pectoralis major
• Sternum
• Upper back
• Serratus anterior

Other spots in the same group

• Cervical muscles
• Deltoid / shoulder
• Supraspinatus
• Teres major / minor

See other spots →