What is a shoulder fracture?
A person with a shoulder fracture has broken one of the bones that make up the shoulder joint. Most shoulder fractures involve the upper portion of the humerus, below the shoulder joint. The humerus is the long arm bone between the shoulder and the elbow. The most common causes of shoulder fracture are a direct impact to the shoulder joint, or a fall onto the elbow. Fractures of the humerus account for 5 percent of all fractures. A fracture of the scapula is rare.

What are the symptoms of a shoulder fracture?
Symptoms of a shoulder fracture include shoulder pain, bruising, swelling, or tenderness. Additional symptoms of a shoulder fracture may include arm weakness, arm numbness, or a deformed shoulder.

How does the doctor treat a shoulder fracture?
Treatment for a shoulder fracture includes rest, a sling, cold compresses, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or narcotic pain medications. Additional treatment for a shoulder fracture may include surgery and physical therapy.