Shoulder & Elbow Fractures

Expert care for shoulder and elbow fractures from conservative treatment to complex surgical reconstruction.

Understanding Shoulder & Elbow Fractures

Fractures of the shoulder and elbow require expert evaluation to determine the optimal treatment approach. Dr. Joshi treats a wide range of fractures around the shoulder and elbow, from simple injuries that heal with immobilization to complex fractures requiring surgical reconstruction.

Proximal humerus fractures (upper arm bone near the shoulder) are common, especially in older adults with osteoporosis. Treatment depends on fracture pattern, bone quality, and patient activity level.

Clavicle (collarbone) fractures are common in young, active individuals from falls or sports injuries. While many heal without surgery, displaced fractures may benefit from surgical fixation.

Elbow fractures can be complex due to the intricate anatomy and importance of early motion. Dr. Joshi's expertise in elbow surgery is valuable for these challenging injuries.

Causes & Risk Factors

Falls onto outstretched hand or shoulder
Direct impact to the shoulder or elbow
Sports injuries
Motor vehicle accidents
Osteoporosis (increases fracture risk)
High-energy trauma

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of shoulder & elbow fractures include:

Immediate pain after injury
Swelling and bruising
Inability to move the arm
Visible deformity in some cases
Tenderness at the fracture site
Numbness or tingling (if nerves affected)
Grinding sensation with movement

Treatment Options

Treatment for shoulder & elbow fractures depends on the severity of your condition and may include:

Immobilization in sling or splint
Pain management
Physical therapy after healing
Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF)
Shoulder replacement for severe fractures
Elbow plating or fixation

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all shoulder fractures need surgery?

No. Many shoulder fractures heal well with immobilization alone. Surgery is recommended for significantly displaced fractures, fractures with multiple fragments, or in younger, active patients.

How long does it take for a shoulder fracture to heal?

Most shoulder fractures take 6-12 weeks to heal enough for motion. Full recovery including strength may take 3-6 months or longer depending on the fracture severity and treatment.

Will I regain full motion after a shoulder fracture?

Most patients regain good function, though some stiffness is common, especially with more severe fractures. Early physical therapy is important for optimizing outcomes.

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