SHOULDER FRACTURES
Proximal Humerus
Fracture
A proximal humerus fracture is a break near the top of the upper arm bone where it forms the shoulder joint. These fractures are common after falls and other injuries. While some require surgery, many heal successfully without an operation. The key is selecting the treatment that provides the best chance of restoring comfort, motion, and function.
Falls & Trauma
Surgery or Nonoperative
Guided Rehabilitation
Restore Function
What Is A Proximal Humerus Fracture?
The proximal humerus is the upper end of the arm bone that forms the ball of the shoulder joint. A fracture in this region may involve one part of the bone or several fragments, and the amount of displacement helps determine the best treatment.
Dr. Streit's Philosophy
One of the biggest misconceptions is that every broken shoulder requires surgery. In reality, many proximal humerus fractures heal very well without an operation. My goal is to recommend surgery only when it is likely to produce a meaningfully better outcome than nonoperative treatment.
Common Symptoms
Severe Shoulder Pain
Pain develops immediately after the injury.
Swelling & Bruising
Bruising often extends into the upper arm and chest.
Difficulty Lifting The Arm
Motion is usually limited because of pain.
Tenderness
The shoulder is painful to touch.
Deformity
More severe fractures may change the normal contour of the shoulder.
Occasional Numbness
Nerve injuries are uncommon but should be evaluated promptly.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination and shoulder X-rays. CT scans are sometimes obtained when fracture complexity influences treatment planning.
Physical Examination
X-rays
CT Scan (When Needed)
Treatment Options
Immobilization
Many fractures heal successfully in a sling.
Early Motion
Gentle movement helps minimize stiffness as healing progresses.
Physical Therapy
Structured rehabilitation restores motion and strength.
Plate & Screw Fixation
Some displaced fractures are best treated with surgery.
Shoulder Replacement
In selected complex fractures, shoulder replacement may provide the most reliable outcome.
Individualized Decision Making
The best treatment depends on fracture pattern, bone quality, age, activity level, and personal goals.
Will I Need Surgery?
Many patients are surprised to learn that surgery is not always necessary. Treatment recommendations depend on how the fracture is aligned, whether the joint surface is involved, your bone quality, and your functional goals. If surgery is recommended, it is because I believe it offers a meaningful advantage over nonoperative care—not simply because a fracture is present.
What I Tell My Patients
"A broken shoulder is not automatically a surgical shoulder. The most important decision is choosing the treatment that gives you the best opportunity to regain a comfortable, functional shoulder over the long term."
Related Resources
Injured Your Shoulder?
Prompt evaluation is important after a shoulder fracture. Whether the best treatment is a sling, physical therapy, fracture fixation, or shoulder replacement, the goal is restoring your shoulder safely and effectively.
Request Consultation