Fractured clavicle in the newborn

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Fractured clavicle (infant)

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Fractured clavicle in the newborn

There is generally decreased movement of the arm on the side with the fractured clavicle. Lifting the baby under the arms causes pain. Sometimes the fracture can be felt with the fingers, but more often there is no visible or palpable evidence of abnormality.

Within a few weeks, a hard lump may develop where the bone is healing, and may be the only indication that the newborn had a fractured clavicle.

The baby will not move the painful, injured arm, instead holding it still at the side. An infant's refusal to move an arm may also be due to nursemaid's elbow (a partial dislocation), nerve damage, infection, or other causes. If there is a question, a chest x-ray will show whether or not there is a fracture.

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