Shoulder and Clavicle Fracture Treatment in Louisville, KY
Expert Proximal Humerus and Clavicle Fracture Treatment From a Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon
A fractured proximal humerus or collarbone can happen in an instant, whether from a fall or a collision on the field; the pain is often immediate and severe, and the loss of arm function that follows can feel alarming. The good news is that most shoulder and clavicle fractures respond very well to appropriate treatment, and with the right care, most patients are able to make a full recovery and return to their normal activities.
Dr. Nyagon Duany is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon in Louisville, KY, with dual training in sports medicine and total joint replacement. She is experienced in diagnosing and treating fractures of the clavicle, proximal humerus, and other structures of the shoulder girdle, using both non-surgical and surgical approaches tailored to the nature of the fracture and the needs of the individual patient. Dr. Duany takes the time to thoroughly explain your injury and your options, so you feel confident and informed from the very first appointment.
If you have sustained a shoulder injury and are experiencing significant pain, swelling, or limited arm movement, use our online form to request an appointment with Dr. Duany today.
Shoulder and Clavicle Fracture Types, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Understanding Shoulder and Clavicle Fractures
The shoulder region includes several bones that are vulnerable to fracture, most commonly the clavicle (collarbone) and the proximal humerus (the upper portion of the arm bone just below the shoulder joint). Each type of fracture has its own characteristics, treatment considerations, and recovery timeline.
Clavicle Fractures
The clavicle is one of the most commonly fractured bones in the body. It connects the sternum (breastbone) to the shoulder blade and is frequently injured in falls onto an outstretched hand, direct blows to the shoulder, or contact sports collisions. Clavicle fractures are classified by location:
- Midshaft fractures occur in the middle third of the bone and are the most common; many respond well to conservative management, though some require surgery
- Distal (lateral) fractures occur near the shoulder end of the clavicle and may involve the AC joint; these more frequently require surgical fixation due to displacement and instability
- Medial (proximal) fractures occur near the sternum and are less common but can involve important nearby structures
Proximal Humerus Fractures
Proximal humerus fractures involve the upper portion of the arm bone and most often occur as a result of a fall, particularly in older adults with osteoporosis. They range from simple, minimally displaced fractures that heal reliably with conservative care to complex, multi-part fractures that require surgical reconstruction. In some cases, severe proximal humerus fractures in older patients may ultimately be best addressed with reverse shoulder replacement rather than fixation.
Shoulder and Clavicle Fracture Symptoms
Common symptoms of a shoulder or clavicle fracture include:
- Sudden, severe pain at the time of injury
- Swelling, bruising, and tenderness over the fracture site
- A visible deformity or bump along the collarbone or at the shoulder
- Significant difficulty or inability to move the arm
- A grinding sensation when attempting shoulder movement
- In clavicle fractures, a drooping of the affected shoulder
Shoulder and Clavicle Fracture Treatment Options
The appropriate treatment depends on the type, location, and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient's age, bone quality, and functional goals.
Conservative treatment is appropriate for many non-displaced or minimally displaced fractures where the bones are in acceptable alignment to heal on their own, and may include:
- Immobilization in a sling to support healing
- Pain management with anti-inflammatory medications
- Careful monitoring with serial X-rays to confirm the fracture is healing in good alignment
- A structured physical therapy program to restore range of motion and strength once healing is confirmed
Surgical treatment is recommended when the fracture is significantly displaced, when fragments are at risk of damaging nearby structures, or when conservative management is unlikely to result in adequate healing and function. Dr. Duany performs open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for shoulder and clavicle fractures, using plates, screws, or other hardware to restore bone alignment and provide stable fixation that allows for earlier rehabilitation.
For complex proximal humerus fractures in older patients where fixation is not reliable, shoulder replacement surgery may be the most appropriate option. Dr. Duany uses CT-guided planning when replacement is indicated, and she will discuss the full range of options clearly during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of a clavicle or shoulder fracture?
Common symptoms of a shoulder or clavicle fracture include:
- Sudden, severe pain following a fall or impact
- Visible swelling, bruising, and tenderness over the injured area
- A noticeable deformity or bump along the collarbone or shoulder
- Significant difficulty moving the arm, particularly lifting or reaching
- A drooping or forward-shifted appearance of the shoulder in clavicle fractures
These symptoms warrant prompt evaluation; an untreated or improperly managed fracture can lead to malunion, nerve involvement, or long-term functional limitations.
Do all clavicle fractures require surgery?
No; many clavicle fractures, particularly midshaft fractures with acceptable alignment, heal well with conservative management using a sling and a structured rehabilitation program. Surgery is more likely to be recommended when:
- The fracture is significantly displaced or shortened
- Bone fragments are overlapping by a considerable amount
- The fracture is in the distal third near the shoulder joint
- The patient is highly active and requires full restoration of shoulder function
- Healing has stalled or malunion has developed
Dr. Duany will review your imaging carefully and give you a clear recommendation based on the specific nature of your fracture and your functional goals.
What is recovery like after shoulder or clavicle fracture surgery?
Recovery after surgical fixation of a shoulder or clavicle fracture typically involves:
- A period of immobilization in a sling to protect the repair while early healing occurs
- Gradual introduction of gentle range-of-motion exercises under the guidance of a physical therapist
- Progressive strengthening as healing is confirmed on imaging
- Return to full activity, including sport or heavy labor, typically at three to six months depending on the fracture type and complexity
Dr. Duany and her team will monitor your recovery closely throughout the process and adjust your rehabilitation plan as needed to support the best possible outcome.
How do I find a fracture specialist near me in Louisville, KY?
If you are searching for a fracture doctor near you or a clavicle fracture specialist in the Louisville area, Dr. Duany makes it easy to get started. Simply fill out our online appointment request form or call us at (502) 629-5633, and our team will follow up to confirm your visit. Dr. Duany sees patients at two convenient Louisville locations and is dedicated to providing expert, personalized orthopedic fracture care to patients throughout the metro area and surrounding communities. We look forward to helping you heal and return to full function.