Shoulder Fracture
What is a Shoulder Fracture?
A shoulder fracture refers to a break or crack in one or more of the bones that make up the shoulder joint. The shoulder is a complex structure consisting of the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). Fractures can occur in any of these bones, affecting the stability and function of the shoulder joint. Seeking specialized care from shoulder fracture specialists is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Causes
Shoulder fractures can result from various causes, including:
- Traumatic injury: A fall onto an outstretched hand, direct impact to the shoulder, or a high-energy collision can lead to a shoulder fracture.
- Sports-related injuries: Participating in contact sports or activities that involve repetitive overhead movements can increase the risk of shoulder fractures.
- Osteoporosis: Weakening of the bones due to osteoporosis can make the shoulder more susceptible to fractures, even with minor trauma.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a shoulder fracture can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture, but common signs and symptoms include:
- Severe pain at the site of the fracture, which may worsen with movement.
- Swelling and bruising around the shoulder joint.
- Difficulty moving the shoulder, particularly when trying to lift or rotate the arm.
- In some cases, a visible deformity or abnormal alignment of the shoulder may be present.
- The affected area may be tender to the touch.
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If you have experienced a shoulder fracture or are exhibiting symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, limited range of motion, or deformity, it is crucial to seek immediate help from our experienced team of shoulder fracture specialists. Don’t let shoulder fractures impede your daily activities or lead to long-term complications – schedule a consultation today and let us provide you with the expert care and personalized treatment you need for a successful recovery.
Your shoulder health is our priority, and we are here to guide you towards healing and regaining full function of your shoulder joint.
Treatments
The treatment of a shoulder fracture depends on several factors, including the type, location, and severity of the fracture. The goal of treatment is to restore proper alignment, promote healing, and regain shoulder function. Treatment options may include:
Non-Surgical Treatments:
Immobilization
For less severe fractures, wearing a sling or shoulder immobilizer may be sufficient to keep the shoulder stable and allow the bone to heal.
Closed reduction
In cases where the fracture fragments are displaced, a closed reduction procedure may be performed to realign the bones without surgical intervention.
Physical therapy
Once the fracture begins to heal, a physical therapy program may be initiated to improve range of motion, strength, and stability of the shoulder joint.
Shoulder Bursitis Specialist’s Surgical Interventions:
Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
For more complex or displaced fractures, surgery may be necessary. This involves realigning the bones and using metal plates, screws, or wires to hold them in place during the healing process.
Shoulder arthroscopy
In some cases, minimally invasive surgery may be performed using a tiny camera and specialized instruments to repair the fracture.