Overview
Shoulder fractures involve breaks to the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade) or clavicle (collarbone). Fracture severity ranges from simple stable breaks to complex multi-fragment injuries. Treatment depends on fracture type, location, displacement and age of the patient. Many heal with conservative care; complex fractures require surgery.
Common symptoms
- Visible deformity or swelling
- Weakness when rotating the shoulder
- Inability to move the arm
- Bruising developing within hours of injury
The procedure
Mr Mitra assesses fracture type with imaging and develops individualised treatment. Simple fractures often heal with immobilisation (sling or cast) and physiotherapy. Complex fractures require surgery — Mr Mitra uses plates and screws or joint replacement to regain function. Surgical stabilisation allows earlier rehabilitation and better outcomes.
Recovery
Surgical cases are typically performed as a day case with physiotherapy starting immediately post-surgery. Rehabilitation is critical for restoring shoulder function. Non-operative conservative cases achieve solid healing within 6-12 months, whilst surgical stabilisation recovers within 3-6 months with dedicated therapy and compliance.
Quick facts
Assessment time
Urgent (emergency department)
Treatment type
Varies (immobilisation to surgery)
Recovery time
6-12 months (conservative), 3-6 months (surgical)
Healing rate
95%+ with proper treatment
Covered by all major UK insurers. No GP referral needed for self-pay.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Your recovery pathway
From your first appointment to full recovery, here’s exactly what to expect — so you know every step before you even book.
01
You get seen
Initial consultation and examination with Mr Mitra to confirm your diagnosis.
ANAESTHETIC & PATIENT COMFORT
Dr Khandelwal – Consultant Anaesthetist
Working in close clinical partnership with Mr Aveek Mitra, Dr Khandelwal specialises in advanced regional nerve blocks and bespoke sedation pathways, ensuring maximum surgical comfort and rapid same-day recovery.
MORE SPECIALISMS
Explore other treatments
Shoulder Impingement
Frozen Shoulder Treatment