Shoulder Fracture

Also known as: shoulder bone fracture, broken shoulder.

What is a shoulder fracture?

When a bone in shoulder breaks, such as the scapula, proximal humerus or clavicle, this is known as a shoulder fracture. There are different types, including a stable fracture where the bones stay aligned, an open fracture that punctures the skin, a transverse fracture with a horizontal line, an oblique fracture with an angled pattern, or a comminuted fracture where the bone shatters into several pieces.

What causes shoulder fracture?

Falls, sports injuries and car accidents are common causes of shoulder fractures. Having osteoporosis can make a fracture more likely to occur.

What are the symptoms of shoulder fracture?

It’s common to experience swelling, bruising, numbness, tingling, intense pain, trouble moving the limb or limb deformity after a shoulder fracture occurs.

What are shoulder fracture care options?

Shoulder fractures are often treated with casts or braces that hold the bones in alignment and limit movement until they can heal. In some instances, surgery and fixation is required to join the bones back together.

Reviewed by: Craig J Spurdle, MD

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:31 PM