Running & Collarbone Pain

Your collarbone is also known as a clavicle 3. Pain in your collarbone while you run is a sign of damage to the bone. This damage could be a simple bruising of the bone, or it could be a fracture or dislocation. In many cases it is a combination of two or more of these conditions.

Causes

Damage to the collarbone usually occurs as a result of trauma. In most cases, it is blunt force trauma. Collarbone injuries are common in athletes. Brittle bones due to lack of calcium may also contribute to the occurrence of this injury. In some cases collarbone injuries are caused by awkward movements that dislocate the bone.

Symptoms

Pain and swelling are the most common symptoms of collarbone damage. The swelling and pain are located in the vicinity of the collar bone. Moving your arm may also cause pain when you have collar bone damage. Impact waves caused by running may also cause pain in a damaged collar bone.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of a collarbone injury is done by a physician. A diagnosis is made through a physical examination and X-ray examination. The treatment regimen of a collar bone injury can include immobilization, pain killing medication -- generally with anti-inflammatory medication -- and, in rare instances, surgery.

Alternatives Exercise to Running

Running is a high impact exercise that sends shock waves through your body every time your feet slam into the ground. Substitute running with low impact exercises such as stationary biking and elliptical training. These exercises will provide the same aerobic workout without aggravating your collarbone injury.