Shoulder Fracture

What is a Shoulder Fracture?

A shoulder fracture is an injury that occurs when one of the bones connected to the shoulder joint breaks. Most often, shoulder fractures take place in the upper humerus. The humerus is the arm bone between the elbow and shoulder, and it connects to the bottom of the shoulder joint.

Shoulder Fracture Symptoms

The following are symptoms of a shoulder fracture:

• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Pain
• Decrease in mobility
• Arm numbness
• Arm weakness

Causes of a Shoulder Fracture

A shoulder fracture can be caused by, but is not limited to, the following:

• a motor vehicle accident
• a job-related accident
• aslip and fall accident
• a landing on the shoulder

It should also be noted that fractured shoulders are more common in elderly people due to bone density loss.

Shoulder Fracture Consequences

Besides discomfort and pain, a person may be unable to twist their upper body and lift their arms. Additionally, lifting objects may cause complications in daily routines at home and work. Depending on the job, it may be necessary to receive a note from a physician requesting light duty if carrying or lifting is required.

Shoulder Fracture Treatment

The RICE method is usually a useful combination in treating a fracture.

• R - Rest
• I - Ice
• C - Compression
• E - Elevation

In order to prevent the injury from worsening, a sling may be used until the fracture has healed as much as necessary. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or acetaminophen, can also help with the pain and swelling. If a patient is experiencing severe pain, a stronger pain medication may be used. Once the pain starts to subside, the patient will then work on strengthening the shoulder muscles by using a series of motion exercises; if necessary, physical therapy may also be of assistance. Depending on the severity of the injury, surgery may be required.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one has experienced a shoulder fracture, please contact our Shoulder Injury Attorneys for a free, personal, and confidential consultation. You can contact the Law Offices of Michael Cordova at 602-265-6700.

Our attorneys not only work on shoulder fracture cases but in other personal injury areas, as well as criminal defense and DUI, dog bites, motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, and product and premises liability, so please contact your local Phoenix attorneys for a free consultation.

*Contingent fees are charged on total recovery. **No Fee Guarantee applies in the event there is no recovery.