Shoulder Fracture
Since the shoulder joint attaches the arms to the body, it withstands a lot of stress throughout daily activities. The shoulder is made up of three bones: the upper arm (humorous), the shoulder blade (scapula), and the collarbone (clavicle). Any of these bones are susceptible to fracture if a significant amount of force is applied. Damage to any of these bones could result in a shoulder fracture which leaves the area vulnerable to pain and discomfort. Many shoulder fractures are very painful, however, sometimes they may go unnoticed.
What Causes a Shoulder Fracture?
Shoulder fractures are typically caused by some form of injury or trauma. Some common examples include:
- Falls, regardless of height
- Contact sports such as football, wrestling, or hockey
- Motor vehicle collision
- Any other direct hit or trauma by an object
Nonsurgical Treatments
In most cases, a fractured shoulder does not require surgical treatment. The first step in treating this condition is to set the arm in place, this might require a sling or cast to prevent movement. To help with swelling or pain, a medical professional might recommend over-the-counter medication or ice packs. Healing times do vary, but it typically takes around six weeks.
After this, many patients will undergo physical therapy to regain strength and remobilize the joint. Physical therapy usually involves a combination of active and therapeutic exercise and stretching.
Symptoms
Since the shoulder is a primal joint, fractures in this region are usually noticeable. However, in some instances, the pain may go unnoticed or feel minimal. Some indicators that an individual may have a shoulder fracture include:
- Severe swelling
- Visible bruising
- Inability to move
- Grinding or cracking sensation in the shoulder
- A prominent bump at the point of fracture
Different shoulder injuries may have similar symptoms. The BEST Health System team has experienced shoulder specialists that will lead a patient on their steps to recovery.
Diagnosis
After a physical examination, a medical professional will typically recommend an X-ray. X-rays are proficient at detecting a fracture because the radiation responds to calcium in bones, making a fracture highly visible.
Upon diagnosis, treatment will vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
In most cases, a fractured shoulder does not require surgical treatment. The first step in treating this condition is to set the arm in place, this might require a sling or cast to prevent movement. To help with swelling or pain, a medical professional might recommend over-the-counter medication or ice packs. Healing times do vary, but it typically takes around six weeks.
After this, many patients will undergo physical therapy to regain strength and remobilize the joint. Physical therapy usually involves a combination of active and therapeutic exercise and stretching.
Reach Out to BEST Health System Today
If you recently fractured your shoulder, call BEST Health System today. We can connect you to a location near you and from there, our highly skilled medical team will help you develop a personalized treatment plan to get you back to the people and activities you love as soon as possible.
If you have experienced any of these symptoms or recieved a diagnosis and need treatment, BEST can help. Take the first step towards relief today.
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