Shoulder Fracture

Shoulder Fracture Care at UVM Health

A shoulder fracture is a break in the ball or socket bone of your shoulder joint. Shoulder fractures are caused by trauma to the shoulder, such as a car accident, sports injury or blow to the shoulder. Sometimes, a shoulder fracture may occur along with another injury, such as a dislocated shoulder or a rotator cuff injury.

At University of Vermont Health, our shoulder specialists provide comprehensive care for all types of shoulder injuries, including fractures. We offer effective treatments to help you heal and get back to the activities you enjoy. You can trust our skilled, experienced team of orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine physicians and advanced practice providers to provide you with the best possible care.

A medical provider speaks to a patient who is holding his shoulder.

Why Choose UVM Health?

As one of the leading orthopedic programs in the region, we offer:

Patient-centered approach: We spend time with you and learn more about your concerns, personal goals and treatment preferences. Our care plans prioritize a nonsurgical approach, only turning to surgery when it’s the most effective choice.
Specialized experts: Our sports medicine physicians and orthopedic surgeons have subspecialty training in shoulder care. They focus on specific conditions, such as shoulder fractures and other injuries, so you always receive treatment from an expert.
Research emphasis: As part of a health system anchored by an academic medical center, our physicians are active researchers at the forefront of research into shoulder care.

Symptoms of a Fractured Shoulder

The most obvious sign of a shoulder fracture is intense pain. Your shoulder may also look unusual or out of place. Other symptoms of a shoulder fracture may include:

Bruising
Loss of range of motion
Sensations of grinding (crepitus) in your shoulder
Swelling

Diagnosing Shoulder Fractures

When diagnosing a shoulder fracture, your specialist will physically examine your shoulder. They’ll ask about your symptoms, including when they started, how they’ve progressed and what, if anything, relieves them.

They may also use imaging to get a closer look at your bones and soft tissues, including:

X-rays: Use low doses of radiation to create an image of your bones
MRIs: Use magnets and radio waves to get a close look at your soft tissues

Shoulder Fracture Treatment

Most people heal from a shoulder fracture with nonsurgical treatment. Our specialists work with you to find a treatment plan that prioritizes your preferences and needs. We only recommend surgery when it’s the most effective option.

Shoulder fracture treatment may include:

Immobilization for Shoulder Fractures

You may need to wear a sling or splint to stabilize your shoulder as it heals.

Medication for Shoulder Fractures

You may need to take medications to reduce inflammation and pain. Many people benefit from over-the-counter medicines such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen.

Physical Therapy for Shoulder Fractures

A physical therapist can teach you exercises to improve your shoulder strength and range of motion. Physical therapy may help improve stability in your shoulder joint after you heal.

Surgery for Shoulder Fractures

In rare cases, you may need surgery to realign your shoulder. Your surgeon may remove bone fragments or stabilize the joint with screws, plates or pins.