This only occurs when a process known as shoulder dystocia develops. There are many other techniques available to overcome this, so it is rarely practiced today. The collarbone is the most commonly broken bone in childhood. These breaks are usually the result of falling directly on the shoulder or on an outstretched arm during play or sports. Adults and the elderly Broken collarbones in adults can occur from the same sports activities that cause similar injuries in children but are usually associated with automobile accidents.
Some people report hearing a snapping sound.
Most people tend to hold their arm close to their body and support it with their other hand. Despite the pain, some people, particularly younger athletes, can have a surprising range of motion of their arms following a broken collarbone. The shoulder of the affected side is usually slumped downward and forward due to gravity. If the clavicle is gently touched along its length, pain is usually greatest at one point, locating the break. Often a crunching feeling is noted over the break, known as crepitus.