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Collarbone (Clavicle)

Picture of the collarbone

The collarbone (clavicle) is one of the main bones of the shoulder joint. The collarbone holds the shoulder up and back, and along with the shoulder blade (scapula) and acromioclavicular (AC) joint helps increase the stability and strength of the shoulder. The collarbone also protects nerves and blood vessels from the neck to the shoulder.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Howard Schaff, MD - Diagnostic Radiology
Last Revised July 13, 2010

Last Revised: July 13, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Howard Schaff, MD - Diagnostic Radiology

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