Recovering From a Shoulder Fracture: What to Expect

Shoulder fractures are common injuries after collisions or falls. 

Our sports medicine specialists at Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C. diagnose and treat a wide range of shoulder issues, including fractures. We’re your partners from the initial injury through your entire recovery. 

Knowing what to expect during recovery from your fracture can help you through the process, which usually takes a few months. We’ve prepared this overview to help you navigate through all stages of your fracture recovery. 

Scope and severity of your shoulder fracture

Treatment and recovery depend on the severity of the injury. Any of the three shoulder bones — the humerus, scapula, and clavicle — can be fractured. 

Scapula (shoulder blade) fractures are the least common due to he protection it receives from the muscles on your back. Teens are most prone to clavicle (collarbone)  fractures, while older adults tend to fracture the humerus (upper bone of the arm). 

The severity of a shoulder fracture can range from hairline injuries to significant compound (open) fractures. Fractures of the shoulder are less common than injuries like dislocation or separated shoulders. 

Diagnosis and treatment

A physical examination followed by diagnostic imaging (X-ray, MRI, or CT scan) is enough to confirm a fracture. Classifications of fractures include: 

• Open fractures break through your skin
• Closed fractures don’t break through the skin
• Displaced fractures have gaps between the fractured pieces 
• Non-displaced fractures remain close to normal alignment

Treatment is based on these classifications. For instance, an open fracture requires more repair work than a closed injury. Immobilization and physical therapy are the primary treatments for mild to moderate fractures or closed injuries. Open and displaced fractures are more likely to require surgery to place the bone pieces together with pins or screws before the shoulder is immobilized. 

What to expect during recovery

How long your recovery takes depends on factors like which bones are involved, the severity of the injury, and the extent of treatment. 

Most people with shoulder fractures require several months of supervised physical therapy to rebuild flexibility, mobility, and strength. This can only begin once the shoulder joint stabilizes to permit safe movement. 

Minor fractures may take as little as a few weeks to heal. More extensive injuries can take months before you have full use of your shoulder again. 

Stiffness is normal after immobilization and is one reason for physical therapy. Severe fractures may cause permanent mobility limitations or restrictions of range of motion. 

We’ll stay in close touch during your recovery so you receive the best information about your status. It’s important not to attempt too much before your shoulder is ready. 

Contact Princeton Sports and Family Medicine P.C. when you experience any shoulder injury. You can request an appointment online or call our Lawrenceville, New Jersey, office directly. Plan your visit today.