A fracture of the collarbone or clavicle most commonly occurs due to a fall or a sports related injury. It causes pain, and difficulty in shoulder movements. In most cases this will heal with non-operative treatment of painkillers and the use of a sling to support the arm. Your surgeon may advise surgery to fix the fracture (open reduction internal fixation) if it is not likely to heal or if it would heal in a non-functional position, possibly compromising functionality of the shoulder joint.