A shoulder fracture happens when one of the bones around the shoulder breaks. Most involve the top of the arm bone near the ball and socket, the collarbone, or the shoulder blade. Falls are the most common cause. With the right plan many people heal well and return to work, sports, and daily life.
A shoulder fracture is a break in the proximal humerus, clavicle, or scapula. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and trouble lifting the arm. You may notice a bump or a change in shoulder shape. An exam and X-rays confirm the diagnosis and help your specialist decide whether a sling and therapy or surgery is the best path.
New shoulder pain from fall deserves attention, especially if you hear a crack, cannot lift the arm, or see swelling and bruising within hours. Apply ice, support the arm in a sling, and avoid pushing through pain. Seek prompt evaluation to rule out a fracture, rotator cuff tear, or dislocation.
Initial broken shoulder treatment often includes a sling, ice for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day, and approved pain medication. Many stable fractures heal without surgery when you start gentle hand, wrist, and elbow motion early, then add shoulder range of motion as pain allows. Surgery is considered when the bone pieces are significantly out of place, the joint surface is involved, or the fracture makes the shoulder unstable. Surgical options include plates and screws, pins, or in select cases a shoulder replacement. Your surgeon will match the approach to the specific fracture and your goals.
It is easy to confuse a fracture with dislocated or separated shoulder injuries.
Early guidance protects healing bone and prevents long term stiffness.
Your journey starts with a personalized consultation where our specialists assess your shoulder, discuss treatment options, and create a care plan tailored to your needs.
We’ll walk you through pre-surgery guidelines, including exercises, lifestyle adjustments, and what to expect before your procedure.
Our expert surgeons perform your shoulder replacement using the latest techniques for optimal results.
After surgery, our team helps you regain strength and mobility through a structured physical therapy plan. Many patients start moving their shoulder within 24 hours.
Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved function within weeks. Our follow-up care ensures lasting success.
“My surgeon and the team at OrthoArkansas were outstanding. From consultation to recovery, I felt supported and well-informed every step of the way.”
“I had my shoulder replaced at OrthoArkansas, and the experience was fantastic. The team truly cares about their patients and their recovery.”
“I was back to doing the things I love in just a few months. OrthoArkansas made my shoulder replacement journey seamless and successful!”
Q: Do All Shoulder Fractures Need Surgery
No. Many stable fractures heal with a sling and guided therapy. Surgery is for displaced or unstable breaks or when the joint surface is involved.
Q: How Do I Sleep With A Shoulder Fracture
Recline slightly on your back with pillows supporting the arm or sleep in a recliner. Keep the sling on if advised.
Q: When Can I Start Moving My Shoulder
Hand, wrist, and elbow motions begin right away. Shoulder motion starts when your provider confirms it is safe on exam and X-ray.
Q: What Activities Should I Avoid
Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling with the injured arm until cleared. No overhead or outstretched reaching early on
Q: Will I Regain Full Motion
Most people do very well with structured rehab. Some stiffness can persist after complex injuries, but early, consistent therapy improves the odds.
Q: How Do I Know If It Is A Fracture Or Dislocated Or Separated Shoulder
All three can follow a fall. A same day exam with X-rays distinguishes them and guides treatment.
Still Have Questions?
A short visit with a shoulder specialist can confirm your shoulder fracture, protect healing, and map a safe path back to work, sport, and daily life.
