Shoulder Fracture, Sprain & Strain

​​Your shoulder is a complex joint made up of three bones: the scapula (shoulder blade), humerus (upper arm bone) and clavicle (collarbone). Fractures, sprains and strains are the most common shoulder injuries. A broken bone, shoulder sprain or shoulder strain may have similar symptoms, but they are different injuries that require specific care.

A shoulder fracture occurs when there is a partial or total break in one or more of the shoulder bones. Fractures are usually caused by a direct blow to the shoulder.

Sprains and strains are similar, but they affect different parts of the shoulder. A sprain means you have a stretched or torn ligament (connective tissue that connects bone to bone). This is sometimes called shoulder separation. A strain is the stretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon in the shoulder.

Diagnosing Shoulder Fracture, Sprain & Strain

If you suspect you have a shoulder fracture, sprain or strain, we can help diagnose your condition and find the right treatment options.

Signs & Symptoms of Shoulder Fracture

Symptoms of a shoulder fracture include:

• Pain that occurs when you breathe deeply or move your shoulder blade
• Severe pain that prevents you from moving your arm or shoulder
• Visible deformity of the shoulder

Signs & Symptoms of Shoulder Sprain

Symptoms of a shoulder sprain include:

• Bruising
• Feeling a “pop” in the joint at the time of the injury
• Pain
• Swelling

Signs & Symptoms of Shoulder Strain

Symptoms of a shoulder strain include:

• Cramping
• Limited movement
• Muscle spasms and/or weakness
• Pain
• Swelling

Diagnosis

Your doctor may use one or more tests to diagnose a shoulder fracture, sprain or strain:

• A physical exam—to assess your shoulder pain, swelling and range of motion.
• X-ray—an imaging test to check for a fracture in your shoulder.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan—a test that uses X-rays to form images of the inside of your shoulder.
• MRI scan—a test that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency pulses to produce detailed pictures of the structures in your shoulder.

Shoulder Fracture, Sprain & Strain Treatment

Depending on your diagnosis, you may need one or more treatments to care for your shoulder fracture, sprain or strain. 

Nonsurgical Treatments

Nonsurgical treatments for shoulder fractures, sprains and strains include:

• Anti-inflammatory and pain medications—for pain relief.
• Brace or sling—wearing a device to stabilize the injured shoulder so it can heal.
• Cold therapy—applying ice packs to your shoulder several times a day to reduce pain and swelling.
• Physical therapy—hands-on treatment to loosen your muscles and joints and decrease pain. You’ll also practice exercises to restore mobility and strength in your shoulder.
• Rest—limiting movement in your shoulder while it is healing.

Surgical Treatments

In some cases, you may need surgery to repair a broken bone or ruptured muscle, tendon, or ligament in your shoulder.