A shoulder fracture can cause severe pain, swelling, and limited arm movement, making everyday activities difficult. At All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute, our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons provide comprehensive shoulder fracture treatment using advanced diagnostic techniques and personalized surgical and non-surgical care. Serving Houston, Clear Lake, Lake Jackson, and Kingwood, we are committed to restoring shoulder function, relieving pain, and helping you recover safely and return to your daily activities.
Shoulder Anatomy
The shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body, enabling a wide range of movements. It is a ball-and-socket joint made up of three bones, namely the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade) and clavicle. The head of the humerus articulates with the socket of the scapula called the glenoid cavity. The clavicle bone or collarbone is an S-shaped bone that connects the scapula to the sternum or breastbone. It forms two joints: the acromioclavicular joint, where it articulates with the acromion process of the scapula, and the sternoclavicular joint, where it articulates with the sternum or breast bone. Tendons and ligaments around the shoulder joint provide strength and stability to the joint.
What is a Shoulder Fracture?
A break in a bone that makes up the shoulder joint is called a shoulder fracture.
Types of Fractures
The clavicle and end of the humerus closest to the shoulder are the bones that usually get fractured. The scapula, on the other hand, is not easily fractured because of its protective cover by the surrounding muscles and chest tissue.
Causes of Shoulder Fracture
Clavicle and humerus fractures can occur by a direct hit from a motor vehicle accident, collision or fall. A fracture of the scapula can occur by high-energy trauma during an accident from a high-speed motor vehicle.
Signs and Symptoms of Shoulder Fracture
The common signs and symptoms of a shoulder fracture may include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Difficulty in lifting your arm
- Numbness, tingling or coldness of the hand and forearm
- The popping sound also referred to as crepitus, heard or felt at the time of the fracture
Diagnosis of Shoulder Fracture
A shoulder fracture is usually diagnosed based on a thorough physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays and CT scans.
Treatments for Shoulder Fractures
The treatment for a shoulder fracture is based on the type of fracture. Treatment can include non-surgical and surgical methods.
A broken clavicle bone usually heals without surgery. Non-surgical treatments for shoulder fractures may include immobilization by placing your arm in a sling, pain medication and physical therapy. If the fracture has led to the displacement of the bones, then surgery may be required to correct and fix them with pins, plates or screws. Post-surgery, physical therapy may be recommended to aid in the recovery and improve range-of-motion and strength of the arm.
Why Choose All American Orthopedic Surgeons for Shoulder Fracture Treatment in Houston, Lake Jackson & Kingwood?
A shoulder fracture requires prompt evaluation and appropriate treatment to promote proper healing and restore normal shoulder function. At All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute, our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons provide expert care for fractures involving the collarbone (clavicle), shoulder blade (scapula), and upper arm bone (proximal humerus). Whether your injury resulted from a fall, sports injury, or motor vehicle accident, we develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific fracture and recovery goals.
Patients choose our orthopedic team because we offer:
- Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons experienced in treating shoulder fractures
- Comprehensive evaluations with advanced imaging when appropriate
- Individualized treatment plans based on the type and severity of the fracture
- Advanced surgical techniques for displaced or complex fractures
- Non-surgical treatment options, including slings, immobilization, and fracture management when appropriate
- Coordinated rehabilitation programs to restore shoulder strength, mobility, and function
- Convenient office locations in Houston (Clear Lake), Lake Jackson, and Kingwood
Our goal is to relieve pain, restore shoulder stability, and help you safely return to work, sports, and everyday activities while minimizing the risk of long-term stiffness or loss of function.
Shoulder Fracture FAQs
What is a shoulder fracture?
A shoulder fracture is a break in one of the bones that make up the shoulder, including the collarbone (clavicle), shoulder blade (scapula), or the upper portion of the arm bone (proximal humerus). These injuries commonly occur after falls, sports injuries, or high-impact trauma.
What are the symptoms of a shoulder fracture?
Common symptoms include severe shoulder pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, difficulty moving the arm, inability to bear weight through the arm, and, in some cases, a visible deformity or abnormal shoulder position.
How is a shoulder fracture diagnosed?
Your orthopedic surgeon will perform a physical examination and typically obtain X-rays to determine the location and severity of the fracture. CT scans may be recommended for complex fractures or to assist with surgical planning.
Will I need surgery for a shoulder fracture?
Not every shoulder fracture requires surgery. Many stable fractures can heal successfully with immobilization in a sling followed by rehabilitation. Surgery may be recommended if the fracture is displaced, unstable, involves the joint surface, or cannot heal properly without fixation.
How long does it take for a shoulder fracture to heal?
Healing time depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Many fractures heal within six to twelve weeks, although complete recovery of strength and shoulder function may take several months with rehabilitation.
Will I need physical therapy?
Yes. Physical therapy is an important part of recovery following a shoulder fracture. Rehabilitation helps restore range of motion, improve strength, reduce stiffness, and safely return you to normal daily activities.
When can I return to work or sports?
Your recovery timeline depends on the type of fracture, the treatment received, and your progress during healing. Your orthopedic surgeon will monitor your recovery and determine when it is safe to gradually resume work, exercise, and sports activities.
Get Expert Care for Shoulder Fractures at All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute
If you've experienced a shoulder fracture, early evaluation and appropriate treatment can help promote proper healing and reduce the risk of long-term complications. The experienced orthopedic team at All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute provides comprehensive care for shoulder fractures, from accurate diagnosis and conservative treatment to advanced surgical repair and personalized rehabilitation.
With convenient locations in Houston (Clear Lake), Lake Jackson, and Kingwood, expert orthopedic care is always nearby. Contact All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute today to schedule your consultation and learn more about your treatment options for a shoulder fracture.
