Shoulder Fractures: Types, Treatment Options, and Recovery Timeline
By Dr. Vishal Sahni – Shoulder, Elbow & Wrist Specialist, London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur
Shoulder pain following an injury can often be dismissed as a sprain or strain. But sometimes, the cause might be something more serious—like a shoulder fracture. Whether it results from a fall, accident, sports injury, or trauma, a fracture of the shoulder can significantly impact your daily life and mobility.
If you or your loved one has suffered from a shoulder fracture, this blog offers in-depth insight into the types, treatment options, and recovery process. Written for patients in and around Nagpur, this guide is backed by the experience of Dr. Vishal Sahni, one of the most trusted shoulder surgeons in Nagpur, with 24+ years of expertise in India and the UK.
What is a Shoulder Fracture?
A shoulder fracture is a break in one of the three bones that make up the shoulder joint:
- Clavicle (Collarbone)
- Scapula (Shoulder Blade)
- Humerus (Upper Arm Bone)
Each of these bones can break in different ways depending on the severity of trauma. These injuries can be painful, and may restrict movement or cause visible deformity around the shoulder.
Common Causes of Shoulder Fractures
Shoulder fractures often occur due to:
- Falls, especially in elderly people with weaker bones
- Road traffic accidents
- Sports injuries (such as during football, cricket, or cycling)
- Direct blow or high-impact trauma
- Seizures or electric shock (rare cases leading to scapula fractures)
In younger people, fractures are mostly due to high-energy trauma, whereas in older adults, even a mild fall can lead to serious fractures due to osteoporosis.
Types of Shoulder Fractures
1. Clavicle Fracture (Collarbone Fracture)
This is the most common shoulder fracture. The collarbone connects the breastbone to the shoulder blade and is prone to breaking during falls or sports injuries.
Symptoms:
- Visible bump or deformity
- Pain and swelling over the collarbone
- Difficulty in lifting the arm
Treatment depends on the location and displacement of the fracture.
2. Proximal Humerus Fracture
This fracture occurs at the top of the upper arm bone, near the shoulder joint. It is common in older adults with weaker bones.
Symptoms:
- Severe pain and bruising in the upper arm
- Restricted shoulder movement
- Arm held close to the body
Depending on the complexity, this may require surgical intervention.
3. Scapula Fracture (Shoulder Blade Fracture)
This type is rare but can occur due to high-impact trauma. The scapula is well-protected by muscles, so fractures usually mean significant force was involved.
Symptoms:
- Deep, dull pain in the upper back
- Swelling and bruising
- Pain with arm movement
Scapula fractures often heal without surgery, but evaluation by a specialist is crucial.
Signs and Symptoms of a Shoulder Fracture
- Sudden, sharp pain after trauma
- Swelling, bruising, and tenderness
- Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder
- Grinding sensation or deformity
- Shoulder or upper arm appears out of shape
If you notice these signs, do not delay medical attention. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term complications.
Diagnosis by a Shoulder Specialist
At London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur, Dr. Vishal Sahni conducts a detailed physical examination followed by imaging tests like:
- X-rays to detect fractures and assess bone displacement
- CT scans for complex or joint-involving fractures
- MRI scans (if soft tissue injuries are also suspected)
Prompt diagnosis ensures the most effective treatment and reduces the risk of long-term joint damage.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Fractures
Treatment depends on multiple factors:
- Type and location of fracture
- Whether the bone is displaced or not
- Patient’s age and overall health
- Activity level and bone density
Let’s understand each treatment route in detail.
1. Non-Surgical Treatment (Conservative Management)
Most clavicle fractures and non-displaced humerus fractures can heal without surgery.
Non-surgical options include:
- Arm sling or shoulder immobilizer to support the bone and reduce movement
- Cold compression to reduce pain and swelling
- Pain-relief medications
- Physical therapy after 2–3 weeks of immobilization
Healing usually takes around 6–8 weeks, and physical therapy helps restore movement and strength.
2. Surgical Treatment
Surgery is needed if:
- The bone is broken into multiple pieces (comminuted fracture)
- There is significant displacement
- There is damage to surrounding nerves or blood vessels
- It involves the joint surface
Common Surgical Procedures:
a. Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF):
The broken bone fragments are realigned and fixed using plates and screws.
b. Intramedullary Nailing:
A rod is inserted inside the bone marrow canal, especially in shaft fractures of the humerus.
c. Shoulder Replacement (Partial or Total):
In severe joint-involving fractures, especially in elderly patients, shoulder replacement surgery may be recommended.
At London Orthopaedic Clinic Nagpur, advanced surgical techniques are used to ensure minimal invasion, faster recovery, and reduced pain. Dr. Sahni is a leading shoulder replacement surgeon in Nagpur, offering both anatomic and reverse shoulder replacements depending on the case.
Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy
Whether surgical or non-surgical, rehabilitation plays a vital role in regaining shoulder strength and motion.
Phase 1: Immobilization
- Protects the healing bone
- Gentle pendulum exercises may be started to avoid stiffness
Phase 2: Passive Range of Motion Exercises
- Helps improve flexibility and joint movement
Phase 3: Active Strengthening
- Focuses on regaining full motion and muscle strength
- Supervised physiotherapy helps prevent complications like frozen shoulder
Each patient receives a customised recovery plan at London Orthopaedic Clinic, ensuring safe and monitored progress.
Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
Recovery can vary depending on the type of fracture, patient’s age, and treatment method. Here’s a general idea:
Clavicle Fracture
- Non-surgical: 6–8 weeks for bone healing, 2–3 months for full function
- Surgical: 8–10 weeks with physical therapy
Proximal Humerus Fracture
- Non-displaced: 8–12 weeks
- Displaced/Surgical: 3–6 months including rehabilitation
Scapula Fracture
- Non-surgical: 6 weeks
- Surgical (rare): 3–4 months
It’s crucial not to rush recovery. Follow-up with the shoulder specialist in Nagpur, Dr. Vishal Sahni, ensures proper monitoring, especially in the case of surgical implants.
Why Choose Dr. Vishal Sahni for Shoulder Fracture Treatment in Nagpur?
✅ 24+ years of global experience (India + UK)
✅ Exclusive focus on Shoulder, Elbow & Wrist problems
✅ Accurate diagnosis using advanced imaging
✅ Latest surgical techniques with faster recovery protocols
✅ Personalised rehabilitation for each patient
✅ Compassionate care and long-term follow-up
Whether you’re suffering from a new shoulder injury or struggling with post-trauma complications, expert help is just a consultation away.
Takeaway Message
Shoulder fractures are serious injuries that need timely diagnosis and the right treatment approach to ensure complete healing. From conservative methods to advanced surgeries like shoulder replacement, each step must be guided by an experienced orthopedic doctor in Nagpur.
Ignoring a shoulder fracture or trying home remedies can lead to complications such as stiffness, deformity, or chronic pain. Instead, consult Dr. Vishal Sahni—your trusted shoulder specialist in Nagpur—for precise evaluation and tailored treatment.
📍Visit London Orthopaedic Clinic – Dhantoli, Nagpur
🔹 Trusted care for Shoulder, Elbow & Wrist
🔹 Advanced diagnostic tools & treatment options
🔹 Compassionate care, modern facility, and international expertise
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the most common type of shoulder fracture?
The most common type of shoulder fracture is the clavicle fracture, also known as a collarbone fracture. It often occurs due to falls, accidents, or sports injuries. It usually causes swelling, pain, and limited shoulder movement.
Q2. How do I know if my shoulder is fractured or just sprained?
A fractured shoulder usually causes intense pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, and inability to move the arm. A sprain might cause milder symptoms without visible bone misalignment. An X-ray is essential for accurate diagnosis, which can be done at London Orthopaedic Clinic in Nagpur.
Q3. Can a shoulder fracture heal without surgery?
Yes, many shoulder fractures, especially non-displaced fractures, can heal with conservative treatment like immobilisation, rest, and physiotherapy. However, complex or displaced fractures may need surgery for proper healing.
Q4. How long does it take to recover from a shoulder fracture?
Recovery time depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Generally:
- Clavicle fractures: 6–8 weeks
- Proximal humerus fractures: 8–12 weeks or longer
- Surgical cases: 3–6 months including physiotherapy
Q5. When is surgery required for a shoulder fracture?
Surgery is required if the fracture is displaced, involves multiple fragments, or affects joint stability. In elderly patients, if the fracture involves the joint, shoulder replacement may be advised.
Q6. Who is the best doctor for shoulder fractures in Nagpur?
Dr. Vishal Sahni is a highly experienced shoulder surgeon in Nagpur, specialising in shoulder, elbow, and wrist treatments. With 24+ years of experience in India and the UK, he offers both surgical and non-surgical solutions tailored to patient needs.
Q7. Is physiotherapy needed after shoulder fracture treatment?
Yes, physiotherapy is crucial for full recovery. It helps restore range of motion, flexibility, and strength. Skipping rehab can lead to stiffness or frozen shoulder.
Q8. Can I drive or lift weights after a shoulder fracture?
Driving or lifting weights should only be resumed after your orthopaedic doctor clears you. Generally, driving is avoided for at least 6–8 weeks, and lifting heavy objects may be restricted for 3–6 months, depending on healing.
Q9. What is the cost of shoulder fracture treatment in Nagpur?
The cost varies depending on the treatment type—non-surgical vs surgical, type of surgery (ORIF, nailing, or replacement), and rehabilitation. Dr. Vishal Sahni provides a clear estimate during consultation after diagnosis.
Q10. What happens if a shoulder fracture is left untreated?
If left untreated, a shoulder fracture may heal improperly, leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, deformity, or arthritis. Early diagnosis and treatment from a specialist like Dr. Vishal Sahni can prevent such complications.