Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

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.