Types of Shoulder Fractures - What You Should Know
The shoulder is a complex joint that grants us a wide range of motion in our upper arms. However, the flexibility of the shoulder joint also makes it prone to injuries. A shoulder fracture can be a painful experience, impacting daily activities and limiting mobility. Shoulder arthroscopy implants may help in the treatment of such injuries.
This blog post explores the three most common types of shoulder fractures that include clavicle fractures, proximal humerus fractures, and scapula fractures. We'll delve into their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What Are the Types of Shoulder Fractures?
Clavicle Fracture (Broken Collarbone)
The clavicle, commonly known as the collarbone, is a slender bone connecting the breastplate (sternum) to the shoulder blade (scapula). Clavicle fractures are the most frequent type of shoulder fracture, especially in children and teenagers due to their still-developing bones.
Causes
Falls onto an outstretched hand or direct impact to the shoulder are the primary culprits behind clavicle fractures. Contact sports, bicycle accidents, and collisions are common causes in adults.
Symptoms
- Sharp pain at the fracture site
- Swelling and bruising around the collarbone
- Difficulty raising or moving the arm
- A visible bump or deformity where the bone is broken (in some cases)
- A sensation of grinding when attempting to move the arm (displaced fractures)
Treatment
In most cases, clavicle fractures heal well without surgery. Treatment typically involves wearing a sling for several weeks to immobilize the joint and promote bone healing. Painkillers can help manage discomfort. Physical therapy exercises are crucial to regaining shoulder strength and mobility once the bone heals.
Proximal Humerus Fracture (Upper Arm Bone Fracture)
The proximal humerus is the upper part of the humerus that connects to the shoulder joint. Proximal humerus fractures are more common in older adults, particularly those with osteoporosis (weakened bones).
Causes
Falls are the leading cause of proximal humerus fractures in older adults. A direct blow to the shoulder, such as during a sports injury or car accident, can also cause them in younger individuals.
Symptoms
- Severe pain in the shoulder
- Difficulty moving the arm
- Bruising and swelling around the shoulder joint
- Deformity of the shoulder (in some cases)
Treatment
Treatment for proximal humerus fractures depends on the severity of the break. Non-displaced fractures might only require immobilization in a sling for a few weeks, followed by physical therapy. Displaced fractures, however, might necessitate surgery to realign the bone fragments and promote proper healing. This surgery may involve pins, plates, or screws to hold the bones in place.
Scapula Fracture (Shoulder Blade Fracture)
Also known as the shoulder blade, the scapula is a triangular bone in the upper back. Scapula fractures are the least common type of shoulder fracture due to the scapula's protected position by surrounding muscles.
Causes
High-energy impacts, such as car accidents or falls from significant heights, are typically required to cause a scapula fracture.
Symptoms
- Pain in the upper back, especially when moving the shoulder
- Difficulty moving the arm
- Bruising and swelling around the shoulder blade area
Treatment
Many scapula fractures heal well without surgery, particularly if the broken bone fragments are not significantly displaced. Treatment often involves immobilization with a sling or brace for several weeks, followed by physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. Surgery might be necessary for complex fractures with severe displacement.
Know more about the advancements in the orthopedic industry and its futuristic considerations at the 53rd Malaysian Orthopedic Association Annual Conference 2024.
