Clavicle

The clavicle, commonly known as the collarbone, is a long bone that forms part of the shoulder girdle. It acts as a strut, connecting the sternum (breastbone) to the scapula (shoulder blade). The clavicle is an S-shaped bone, slightly curved, with two main curvatures: a medial convex curve and a lateral concave curve. It's subcutaneous, meaning it's situated directly beneath the skin and thus easily palpable. Its primary function is to transmit forces from the upper limb to the axial skeleton, stabilize the shoulder joint, and permit a wide range of arm movements. Its structure allows significant flexibility and resistance to stress due to its specific bone matrix.

Clavicle meaning with examples

• During a football game, the player collided heavily, and the medical team quickly assessed his injury, suspecting a clavicle fracture. A thorough examination, including X-rays, was done to confirm the severity of the break. This was essential to determine the appropriate treatment plan for his quick recovery and getting him back on the field.
• The artist meticulously sculpted the clavicle in the statue, paying attention to the curve and prominence of the bone to enhance the figure's realism. The fine details brought a lifelike appearance to the artwork. This reflected their deep understanding of human anatomy and their skill in portraying it.
• After falling from the swing set, the child cried in pain, clutching their shoulder. Upon the medical checkup, the doctors found a displaced fracture of the clavicle. They had to immobilize the arm using a sling and monitor the fracture's progress.
• In the archaeological dig, the team carefully unearthed several bone fragments, including a nearly complete clavicle. Based on the clavicle's dimensions and structure, they hypothesized the size and general health of the individual, which was a crucial piece of evidence in constructing their understanding of the past.