Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Fractures Around the Shoulder

Fractures around the shoulder are often caused by:
✔ Trauma: Falls, especially on an outstretched arm, or direct impact injuries.
✔ Sports injuries: Activities like football, rugby, and cycling that involve sudden movements or collisions.
✔ Motor vehicle accidents: High-impact accidents can cause significant fractures in the shoulder region.
✔ Osteoporosis: Weakened bones due to aging or underlying health conditions make the shoulder more vulnerable to fractures from minimal trauma.
✔ Repetitive stress: Overuse injuries from lifting, overhead activities, or certain work-related movements.

Fractures around the shoulder can affect different bones and parts of the joint:

1. Clavicle (Collarbone) Fracture: The clavicle is the most frequently fractured bone in the body. These fractures often occur from falls or direct trauma.

2. Scapula (Shoulder Blade) Fracture: Rare but serious fractures that typically happen in high-impact accidents, such as car crashes.

3. Proximal Humerus Fracture: A break in the upper part of the humerus (the arm bone near the shoulder). This type of fracture is more common in older individuals, especially those with osteoporosis.

Shoulder fractures are usually characterized by the following symptoms:
✔ Intense pain around the shoulder area, often aggravated by movement.
✔ Swelling and bruising at the injury site.
✔ Limited mobility or difficulty moving the arm.
✔ Deformity or visible bone displacement, particularly in clavicle fractures.
✔ Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand if nerves are damaged.
✔ Weakness in the arm, making it difficult to lift or carry objects.

If you experience any of these symptoms after an injury, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly.

To diagnose fractures around the shoulder, a healthcare provider will:

1. Conduct a physical examination: The doctor will check for pain, swelling, and deformities and test your range of motion.

2. Order X-rays: X-rays are the most common imaging tool to assess the extent and location of the fracture.

3. Use CT scans or MRIs: In some cases, more detailed imaging may be required, especially for complex fractures or when there is concern about soft tissue damage.

Treatment for shoulder fractures depends on the severity and location of the fracture. The options include:

Non-Surgical Treatments

For fractures that are stable and do not involve significant displacement of bones, the following treatments may be used:

• Immobilization: A sling or brace is used to keep the shoulder still and reduce movement to allow the bones to heal.

• Pain management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications to manage discomfort during the healing process.

• Ice therapy: Applying ice to the injured area can reduce swelling and inflammation.

• Physical therapy: Once the fracture begins healing, physical therapy is crucial to restore shoulder strength and range of motion.

Surgical Treatments

If the fracture is severe, unstable, or involves significant displacement, surgery may be required. Surgical options include:

• Internal fixation: Metal plates, screws, or rods are used to stabilize the fractured bone and promote proper alignment during healing.

• Shoulder replacement: In cases of severe fractures, especially involving the ball or socket of the joint, shoulder joint replacement may be necessary.

• Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and specialized tools to repair fractures or soft tissue damage.

What is the Recovery Time for Shoulder Fractures?

Recovery time varies based on the type and severity of the fracture:

• Clavicle fractures typically take 6-8 weeks to heal with rest and immobilization.

• Scapula fractures may take 6-12 weeks for full recovery, with surgery possibly extending this time.

• Proximal humerus fractures generally require 6-12 weeks of recovery, followed by months of rehabilitation.
  During recovery, physical therapy is essential for restoring strength and mobility to the shoulder. Full recovery can take several months, and it may take up to a year for the shoulder to regain its full function.

Though most shoulder fractures heal well, some complications can arise, including:
✔ Infection: A risk if surgery is required.
✔ Nerve or blood vessel damage: Injury to the nerves or blood vessels around the shoulder can affect sensation and movement.
✔ Non-union: In some cases, the bones may not heal properly, requiring additional treatment or surgery.
✔ Stiffness: Limited movement or stiffness in the shoulder after healing.
✔ Arthritis: The damaged shoulder joint may develop arthritis in the long term, especially in cases of severe fractures.

Knee arthroscopy is very safe, but like any surgery, it has some risks:While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of shoulder fractures:
✔ Exercise regularly to strengthen muscles and bones, improving balance and stability.
✔ Avoid falls by maintaining a safe environment (e.g., removing tripping hazards at home).
✔ Wear protective gear while playing sports or engaging in activities with a high risk of injury.
✔ Maintain bone health with calcium and vitamin D intake and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use, which can weaken bones.

🔸 Infection (Rare, <1% cases)
🔸 Blood clots (DVT)
🔸 Swelling and stiffness
🔸 Nerve or blood vessel injury (Extremely rare)
🔸 Incomplete pain relief (If severe arthritis is present)

Most complications are preventable with proper care.

🔹 Mild pain: 1-2 weeks
🔹 Swelling & stiffness: 3-6 weeks
🔹 Occasional discomfort: May persist for a few months, especially after activity.