Fractured clavicle in the newborn

Fractured collar bone - newborn 

There is generally decreased movement of the arm on the side with the fractured clavicle. Lifting the baby under the arms causes the child pain. Sometimes the fracture can be felt with the fingers, but more often the problem can not be seen or felt.

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

The baby will not move the painful, injured arm. Instead, the baby will hold it still against the side of the body. An infant's refusal to move an arm may also be due to nursemaid's elbow, nerve damage, infection, or other causes. If there is a question, a chest x-ray will show whether or not there is a fracture.