After a physical examination of your shoulder, your physician will confirm the diagnosis with an x-ray. This also will show the extent of the damage.

Your doctor will attempt to place your broken bones back into a position that will allow healing and help restore mobility. You may need to wear a sling to immobilize the area while it heals. Most fractures can be treated without surgery, and heal in about 3 to 4 months.

In some cases, your doctor may suggest further treatment, including surgery and physical therapy to help you restore shoulder function, strength, and mobility.

The choices in surgery are several and depend on the type of fracture.