Yes, a fractured shoulder blade can heal on its own, but it may take some time. Depending on the severity of the fracture, you may need to wear a sling or brace to keep the shoulder in place and immobilised. Try not to move the arm too much, and avoid strenuous activities until the fracture heals. See a doctor if there is severe pain, swelling or bruising around the fractured area. Simply by immobilising the joint, you are allowing the fractured shoulder to heal on its own.
Can a broken shoulder heal on its own? Most broken shoulders are treated by immobilising the broken shoulder using a cast, sling or splint.
Depending on the severity, surgery may be the best treatment for a fractured shoulder.
Surgery becomes the choice of treatment if the fracture healing is likely to take place abnormally- e.g., the bone will heal in a rotated manner, if the bone is comminuted (broken into little pieces), if the fracture is open and contaminated, etc.
Surgery is also important if various complications are associated with the fracture- e.g., nerve or blood vessel damage, chances of avascular necrosis, etc.
