Patient may report history of significant injury (falling on shoulder tip, or blunt trauma). He or she may be unable to lift his or her arm due to site pain.

Inspect for a "bump" or some other similar deformity at the site of the injury. Listen/feel for a grinding sensation when the patient raises his arm. It may present a "tent" formation but should not penetrate the dermis to create an open fracture.

Utilize plain radiographs to make a diagnosis of lateral and middle third clavicle fractures. Fractures and dislocations at the medial end of the clavicle may be easier seen on CT scans.

Apply an arm sling to an adult for four to six weeks. After three weeks, the patient will benefit from gentle shoulder exercises.