It takes approximately 7 pounds of pressure to break a human clavicle, or collarbone. The clavicle is made up of a single, long, thin bone, one of two that extends from the shoulder blades to the breastbone. Commonly, the clavicle is broken by falling on the shoulder.
Symptoms of a broken clavicle include immediate pain at the break site, swelling, a bump forming at the area of the break, difficulty moving or raising the arm and a grinding feeling when rotating the arm. A broken clavicle may also cause the shoulder to sag. Treatment includes wearing a brace or sling for several weeks, taking anti-inflammatory medication and completing strengthening exercises.
