SHOULDER FRACTURES
Do I Need Surgery For
My Shoulder Fracture?
One of the first questions patients ask after breaking their shoulder is whether surgery is necessary. The answer depends on far more than simply having a fracture. Many shoulder fractures heal very well without surgery, while others are best treated with an operation to restore shoulder function.
Heal Without Surgery
Individualized
Best Long-Term Function
Based On Your Fracture
The Short Answer
Many shoulder fractures do not require surgery. In fact, a large percentage of proximal humerus fractures heal successfully with a sling, followed by progressive rehabilitation. Surgery is recommended only when it is likely to provide a better long-term outcome than nonoperative treatment.
Dr. Streit's Philosophy
One of the biggest misconceptions is that surgery fixes every fracture better. That's simply not true. I recommend surgery only when I believe it will improve your ultimate function, decrease the risk of long-term problems, or restore anatomy that cannot heal acceptably on its own.
What Determines Whether Surgery Is Needed?
Fracture Alignment
How far the broken pieces have moved is one of the most important factors.
Joint Surface
Fractures involving the shoulder joint require careful evaluation.
Bone Quality
Healthy bone and osteoporotic bone may require different treatment strategies.
Age
Age alone does not determine treatment, but it influences healing potential and surgical options.
Activity Level
Your occupation, hobbies, and functional goals are important considerations.
Medical Health
Your overall health helps determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.
Possible Treatment Options
Sling
Many fractures heal predictably with short-term immobilization.
Early Motion
Gentle movement helps minimize stiffness as healing progresses.
Physical Therapy
Guided rehabilitation restores motion and strength.
Plate & Screw Fixation
Some displaced fractures are best stabilized surgically.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
Selected complex fractures—particularly in older adults—may be treated most reliably with reverse shoulder replacement.
Individualized Decision Making
Every recommendation is based on your specific fracture and your goals.
Questions Patients Commonly Ask
Can It Heal Without Surgery?
How Long Will I Wear A Sling?
Will My Shoulder Be Normal Again?
When Can I Drive?
How Soon Will Therapy Begin?
When Can I Return To Golf Or Sports?
What I Tell My Patients
"The goal is not simply to make the fracture heal. The goal is to restore a comfortable, dependable shoulder that lets you return to the activities you enjoy. Sometimes that requires surgery. Often it does not."
Related Resources
Wondering If You Need Surgery?
The decision to operate on a shoulder fracture should be individualized. A careful review of your X-rays, your fracture pattern, and your goals can help determine whether surgery or nonsurgical treatment offers the best opportunity for a successful recovery.
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