A fractured shoulder may involve a broken collarbone (clavicle),
shoulder blade (scapula), upper arm (humerus), or the shoulder
cup (glenoid). This injury might occur when someone falls
against an outstretched hand or receives a direct blow to the
shoulder. Sprains, strains, or dislocations may occur at the
same time as a fracture. It may be hard to tell the difference
between a bad sprain and a fracture. Signs of a fracture may
include: Symptoms of a fracture may include: Recovery time for a
fracture varies depending on the person's age and health and the
type and severity of the fracture. A minor break in a child's
shoulder may heal completely in a few weeks. In an older person,
a serious fracture may require months to heal, and normal
shoulder motion may never return. Initial treatment focuses on
keeping the injured shoulder from moving by using a sling or
shoulder immobilizer, applying ice, and taking measures to
relieve pain. Early physical therapy to strengthen the shoulder
and regain motion is importan