Shoulder fractures are extremely complicated fractures, since the shoulder joint has a lot mobility. They are typically classified by how many pieces the shoulder is broken into, e.g., 2-part, 3-part, and 4-part fractures. They're also classified by which bone is broken, e.g., proximal humerus, clavicle, scapula, acromion, glenoid. When most orthopedic surgeons talk about a "shoulder fracture", though, they are referring to fractures of the upper part of the humerus.

Shoulder fractures can happen when the shoulder receives a direct blow as a result of a fall, car accident, or collision. The shoulder consists of three bones: the shoulder blade, collar bone, and arm bone. It is not easy to fracture the shoulder blade because it is protected by the chest and surrounding muscles, but it's possible.

Thankfully, many shoulder fractures may be treatable with a simple sling. he bone is permitted to heal, and once it has healed enough, physical rehabilitation is begun to regain motion and strength. We quite often tell our patients this is like walking on the tightrope; we can leave the patient in a sling for a long time and the bone will heal, but their shoulder function will never recover. Or we can start moving the shoulder too soon and the bone will not heal properly. Striking the right balance is up to your orthopedist. We definitely recommend a house exercise program once you are allowed to move your shoulder. Our shoulder rehabilitation kit is ideal for this.

Treatment of proximal humerus fractures depends on the severity of the injury and the age and activity degree of the patient. Most of these injuries are treated successfully non-operatively with rest and use of a sling, icing, and anti-inflammatories. Physical rehabilitation is often needed after the fracture has healed to regain motion and strength within the shoulder. More severe injuries may require surgery to help restore the normal anatomy of the proximal humerus during healing of the fracture. Healing in a normal or near-normal anatomic position improves functional outcome after shoulder fractures. Occasionally, a unique type of joint replacement enables you to restore the proximal humerus after a significant

Shoulder pain treatment for a fracture can take several weeks for a complete recovery depending on the location of the fracture. Your doctor can help you achieve shoulder pain alleviation while your shoulder injury is healing .