Shoulder Fracture Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC
A shoulder fracture can happen suddenly after a fall, sports injury, or motor vehicle accident, causing severe pain and making it difficult or impossible to move your arm. Prompt evaluation is important to ensure the fracture heals properly and to restore normal shoulder function. Blake Ohlson, M.D. is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and regenerative medicine specialist serving patients in Mount Pleasant, SC. He provides comprehensive care for shoulder fractures, from non-surgical treatment with immobilization to advanced surgical repair when needed, helping patients recover safely and return to their daily activities as quickly as possible.
Shoulder Anatomy
The shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body, enabling a wide range of movements. It is a ball-and-socket joint made up of three bones, namely the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade) and clavicle. The head of the humerus articulates with the socket of the scapula called the glenoid cavity. The clavicle bone or collarbone is an S-shaped bone that connects the scapula to the sternum or breastbone. It forms two joints: the acromioclavicular joint, where it articulates with the acromion process of the scapula, and the sternoclavicular joint, where it articulates with the sternum or breast bone. Tendons and ligaments around the shoulder joint provide strength and stability to the joint.
What is a Shoulder Fracture?
A break in a bone that makes up the shoulder joint is called a shoulder fracture.
Types of Fractures
The clavicle and end of the humerus closest to the shoulder are the bones that usually get fractured. The scapula, on the other hand, is not easily fractured because of its protective cover by the surrounding muscles and chest tissue.
Causes of Shoulder Fracture
Clavicle and humerus fractures can occur by a direct hit from a motor vehicle accident, collision or fall. A fracture of the scapula can occur by high-energy trauma during an accident from a high-speed motor vehicle.
Signs and Symptoms of Shoulder Fracture
The common signs and symptoms of a shoulder fracture may include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Difficulty in lifting your arm
- Numbness, tingling or coldness of the hand and forearm
- The popping sound also referred to as crepitus, heard or felt at the time of the fracture
Diagnosis of Shoulder Fracture
A shoulder fracture is usually diagnosed based on a thorough physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays and CT scans.
Treatments for Shoulder Fractures
The treatment for a shoulder fracture is based on the type of fracture. Treatment can include non-surgical and surgical methods.
A broken clavicle bone usually heals without surgery. Non-surgical treatments for shoulder fractures may include immobilization by placing your arm in a sling, pain medication and physical therapy. If the fracture has led to the displacement of the bones, then surgery may be required to correct and fix them with pins, plates or screws.
Post-surgery, physical therapy may be recommended to aid in the recovery and improve range-of-motion and strength of the arm.
Why Choose Dr. Blake Ohlson for Shoulder Fracture Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC?
A shoulder fracture requires timely diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan to promote proper healing and minimize long-term stiffness or loss of function. Dr. Blake Ohlson combines advanced orthopedic expertise with an individualized approach, carefully evaluating each fracture to determine whether non-surgical treatment or surgical stabilization will provide the best outcome.
Patients throughout Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and Summerville choose Dr. Ohlson because he offers:
- Board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic expertise
- Comprehensive evaluation of shoulder injuries using advanced imaging
- Personalized treatment plans based on fracture type, severity, and activity level
- Expertise in both non-surgical fracture management and surgical fixation
- Focus on restoring shoulder mobility, strength, and long-term function
- Coordinated rehabilitation and physical therapy guidance to support recovery
- Compassionate, patient-centered care from diagnosis through rehabilitation
Whether your injury involves the clavicle, proximal humerus, or shoulder blade, Dr. Ohlson is committed to helping you heal properly and regain confidence in your shoulder function.
Shoulder Fracture FAQs
What are the signs of a shoulder fracture?
Common symptoms include severe shoulder pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty moving the arm, deformity around the shoulder or collarbone, and sometimes numbness or tingling in the arm or hand. Some patients also hear or feel a popping sensation at the time of injury.
Do all shoulder fractures require surgery?
No. Many shoulder fractures, particularly certain clavicle and minimally displaced proximal humerus fractures, heal successfully with sling immobilization, pain management, and physical therapy. Surgery is generally recommended when the bones are significantly displaced, unstable, involve the joint surface, or cannot heal properly without fixation.
How is a shoulder fracture diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a thorough physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays. In more complex injuries, CT scans may be recommended to better evaluate the fracture pattern and guide treatment planning.
How long does it take a shoulder fracture to heal?
Most shoulder fractures begin to heal within six to twelve weeks, although full recovery of strength and range of motion may take several months. Recovery depends on the location and severity of the fracture, whether surgery is required, and participation in rehabilitation.
When can I return to work or sports after a shoulder fracture?
Return to normal activities varies depending on the injury and treatment. Many patients gradually resume daily activities as healing progresses, while returning to sports or physically demanding work typically requires full bone healing, restored strength, and clearance from your orthopedic surgeon.
Schedule a Shoulder Fracture Evaluation in Mount Pleasant, SC
If you've experienced a fall, sports injury, or accident resulting in severe shoulder pain or limited arm movement, early orthopedic evaluation is essential. Dr. Ohlson provides expert diagnosis and treatment for shoulder fractures in Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Summerville, and surrounding South Carolina communities. Whether your injury can be treated conservatively or requires surgery, you'll receive a personalized care plan focused on restoring shoulder function and helping you return to your normal activities safely.
Schedule your appointment today to receive expert shoulder fracture care and begin your recovery with confidence.