Three bones - the humerus, scapula, and clavicle - make up the shoulder joint. When one of these bones breaks, it's called a shoulder fracture or a broken shoulder. The most common cause of a shoulder fracture is a traumatic injury that puts a lot of force on your shoulder, such as in a fall or car accident.
Shoulder fractures are not as common as other shoulder injuries.
Symptoms
- Shoulder pain
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Not being able to move your shoulder
- A bump at your shoulder that's not usually there
Treatment
Risk Factors
You're more likely to get a humerus fracture if you're over 65 years old and have bone density issues. Clavicle fractures are most common in teenagers.
Other risk factors of a shoulder fracture include:
- Playing contact sports
- Having osteoperosis
Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition
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Orthopedic Surgery
We provide comprehensive orthopedic care for acute and chronic conditions to help you get back to the activities you love.
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Physical and Occupational Therapy
The Physical and Occupational Therapy Department at Boston Medical Center offers expert care to those recovering from an injury or facing a physical disability or limitation.
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Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy focuses on upper extremity function to restore independence with activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, household tasks, and returning to work.
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Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help treat many different medical conditions, as well as preventing loss of mobility and function. Our physical therapists evaluate, diagnose, and treat a var…