What it is (overview)

An XR Clavicle is a plain X-ray (radiology) exam that creates images of the clavicle (collarbone), the long bone that connects your breastbone (sternum) to your shoulder. The test is a form of diagnostic imaging used to look at bone structure and alignment. It is commonly performed as part of an orthopedic evaluation after an injury or when someone has shoulder pain near the collarbone.

This X-ray helps a clinician evaluate:

• Bone fractures (cracks or breaks) and their location (middle, inner, or outer clavicle)
• Dislocation or separation at nearby joints, especially the acromioclavicular (AC) joint (where the collarbone meets the shoulder)
• Bone alignment (whether pieces are shifted) and the degree of displacement
• Healing over time after a known fracture (new bone formation/callus)
• Other bone changes, such as irregular shape, deformity, or areas that may need further imaging

What results mean: A “normal” result typically means the collarbone is intact and properly aligned, with no obvious fracture or abnormal joint spacing. An “abnormal” result may show a clavicle fracture, an AC joint separation, a sternoclavicular joint injury, or other bony abnormalities. Your clinician will interpret the findings alongside your symptoms and physical exam to guide treatment, which may range from a sling and pain control to orthopedic referral or, less commonly, surgery.

When & why it's usually done

An XR Clavicle is most often ordered for injury assessment after trauma to the shoulder or upper chest, or when pain suggests a collarbone problem. Because the clavicle is commonly injured in falls and sports, this test helps confirm the diagnosis and determine the best next steps.

Your doctor may order a clavicle X-ray if you have:

• Shoulder pain or collarbone pain after a fall, collision, or direct blow
• Swelling, bruising, or a visible bump along the collarbone
• Limited shoulder movement or pain when lifting the arm
• Tenderness over the collarbone or at the AC joint
• A feeling that the shoulder is “out of place,” suggesting a dislocation or joint separation
• Concern for fracture complications (significant displacement, skin tenting, numbness/tingling, or circulation changes in the arm)

It may also be used to:

• Check healing after a previously diagnosed collarbone fracture
• Evaluate persistent pain after an injury when symptoms are not improving as expected
• Support treatment planning (for example, deciding between conservative care vs. orthopedic intervention)

In many cases, images are taken in one or more views (angles) so the radiologist can better see subtle fractures or joint alignment issues.

Common diseases related to it

• Clavicle (collarbone) fracture
• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint sprain or separation
• Sternoclavicular joint dislocation or subluxation
• Shoulder girdle trauma (injuries affecting the clavicle/shoulder complex)
• Nonunion or malunion of a clavicle fracture (delayed or abnormal healing)
• Osteolysis of the distal clavicle (often related to repetitive stress/overuse)
• Osteoarthritis or degenerative changes at the AC joint
• Bone infection (osteomyelitis) or inflammatory bone changes (less common; may need further imaging)
• Bone tumors or cystic bone lesions (rare; X-ray may be a first step before advanced imaging)

Health goals where it may help

• Getting a clear diagnosis for shoulder pain after injury and avoiding missed bone fractures
• Guiding safe return to work, sports, and daily activities after shoulder or collarbone trauma
• Tracking fracture healing to support appropriate rehabilitation and physical therapy timing
• Reducing the risk of long-term complications (chronic pain, reduced range of motion, poor bone healing)
• Supporting an effective orthopedic evaluation and treatment plan (sling, rehab, or surgical referral when needed)
• Confirming joint alignment after suspected dislocation or AC joint separation