First Aid & Emergencies

Broken Shoulder Blade Treatment

1. Get Medical Help Immediately

• Get the person to a health care provider or hospital emergency department.

2. Control Bleeding

• If there is bleeding, apply steady, direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage for 15 minutes. If blood soaks through, apply another cloth over the first.

3. Make a Sling

• Supporting the injured arm, place a triangular bandage or cloth under it and over the uninjured shoulder.

• Tie the sling at the side of the neck.

4. Treat Symptoms

• Apply ice for pain and swelling.

• Give over-the-counter acetaminophen for pain.

5. Follow Up

• The health care provider will examine the shoulder and may do an X-ray or other tests. In most cases, surgery is not needed.

• The health care provider may put the arm in a sling.