shoulder-fracture

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Expert evaluation and advanced treatment for broken shoulder bones

By Dr Rahul Singh (MS, DNB, MRCS)

Grammont Shoulder & Knee Clinic, Lucknow

What is a Shoulder Fracture?

A shoulder fracture refers to a break in one of the bones making up the shoulder complex:

  • Clavicle (collarbone)
  • Proximal humerus (upper arm bone near the shoulder)
  • Scapula (shoulder blade)

These fractures may result from trauma such as falls, road accidents, sports injuries, or direct blows. Depending on severity, fractures can be simple, displaced, comminuted (multiple fragments), or associated with joint dislocation.

Common Types of Shoulder Fractures

1. Clavicle Fracture

A very common injury, often caused by falls or sports trauma. Symptoms include pain over the collarbone, shoulder drooping, and difficulty lifting the arm.

2. Proximal Humerus Fracture

One of the most frequent shoulder fractures, especially in older adults with osteoporosis. Severity depends on the number of bone fragments displaced.

3. Scapula Fracture

Less common and usually due to high-energy trauma. Often associated with chest or rib injury.

4. Fracture-Dislocation

A combination of broken bones and shoulder dislocation—requires specialised treatment for stability and safe healing.

Symptoms of a Shoulder Fracture

Patients typically experience:

  • Severe shoulder pain
  • Swelling, bruising, or visible deformity
  • Inability to lift or move the arm
  • Grinding sensations at the fracture site
  • Shoulder drooping or abnormal contour
  • Numbness or tingling if nerves are involved

If these symptoms occur after an injury, immediate evaluation is crucial.

Diagnosis at Grammont Shoulder & Knee Clinic

At Grammont Shoulder & Knee Clinic, Dr Rahul Singh performs a thorough assessment including:

  • Detailed clinical examination
  • X-rays to identify the fracture type and displacement
  • CT scan (if required) for complex fractures
  • Neurovascular assessment to ensure safety of nerves and blood vessels

This helps create a precise, personalised treatment plan.

Treatment Options

1. Non-Surgical Management

Many fractures—especially minimally displaced ones—heal well without surgery. Treatment includes:

  • Shoulder sling or immobiliser
  • Ice and pain relief
  • Early gentle movement to prevent stiffness
  • Regular X-ray monitoring
  • Physiotherapy to regain strength and motion

This approach works extremely well for most clavicle and proximal humerus fractures.

2. Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be recommended when:

  • Bones are significantly displaced
  • Multiple fragments are present
  • Fracture involves the joint surface
  • There is fracture-dislocation
  • Nerves or vessels are compromised

Common Surgical Procedures:

  • Plate and screw fixation for clavicle or humerus fractures
  • Intramedullary nailing
  • Arthroscopic-assisted fracture repair
c. Reverse Shoulder Replacement

Ideal for arthritis associated with massive rotator cuff tears (rotator cuff arthropathy).

Advantages

  • Restores arm elevation
  • Reduces pain dramatically
  • Excellent stability even without the rotator cuff
  • Shoulder replacement (reverse or anatomical) in severe, non-repairable fractures—especially in older patients with complex proximal humerus fractures

Rehabilitation & Recovery

Rehabilitation is crucial for full shoulder function.

Recovery Timeline

  • 0–3 weeks: Gentle sling use, early passive movements
  • 4–6 weeks: Active range of motion
  • 6–12 weeks: Strengthening exercises begin
  • 3–6 months: Return to normal work and sports activities

Physiotherapy at our clinic ensures safe, guided recovery with minimal stiffness.

Why Choose Grammont Shoulder & Knee Clinic?

  • Specialist expertise in traumatic shoulder injuries
  • Advanced imaging for accurate diagnosis
  • Skilled management of both simple and complex fractures
  • Expertise in arthroscopic and open surgical reconstruction
  • Personalised physiotherapy and long-term follow-up

Regain Strength and Stability After a Shoulder Fracture

A shoulder fracture can be painful and limiting, but with expert care and a structured recovery plan, most patients return to full activity.

Consult Dr Rahul Singh
Grammont Shoulder & Knee Clinic, Lucknow
for comprehensive fracture evaluation and advanced treatment options.