Closed reduction of a clavicle fracture

A clinician may use careful positioning or manipulation, then support the arm in a sling or other device. Not every broken collarbone needs manipulation, and reduction does not by itself ensure that the fragments will stay aligned.

Assessment includes the skin over the collarbone, shoulder shape, arm sensation, hand movement and circulation. Imaging shows the fracture pattern and displacement. Pain control may be provided before the clinician attempts to improve the position.

The collarbone is difficult to immobilise completely because it moves with the shoulder and chest. Some displacement may therefore remain acceptable, while marked instability, threatened skin, an open wound or certain fracture patterns can lead to discussion of surgical fixation.

Wear the prescribed support as directed and avoid lifting, pushing, pulling or overhead activity until cleared. Keep the elbow, wrist and fingers moving if your clinician permits, since unnecessary stiffness can develop away from the fracture.

Use pain medicine according to instructions and attend scheduled imaging. Once healing is secure enough, guided exercise can restore shoulder movement before progressing to strength and load-bearing tasks.

Seek urgent care if the hand becomes cold, pale or blue, new numbness or weakness appears, breathing becomes difficult, or pain and swelling worsen suddenly. Prompt reassessment is also needed if bone breaks the skin, the skin over a fragment becomes pale or tightly stretched, or the support causes pressure injury.

Confirm how the latest image describes alignment, which movements are allowed, when the sling can come off for hygiene and exercise, and what would make surgery necessary. Ask when driving, work duties, sport and physiotherapy can be considered safely.