There are three major bones that make up the shoulder girdle: the clavicle (collarbone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the humerus (upper arm bone). A shoulder fracture is a condition in which one or more of these bones is broken. Shoulder fractures are generally the result of blunt force trauma from a sports-related injury or a blow directly to the bone in a traumatic event such as a motor vehicle collision.
A clavicle fracture is one of the more common injuries accounting for approximately 5 percent of adult broken bones. The middle portion of this long bone is most frequently broken from a traumatic injury. Some indications of a clavicle fracture are swelling and/or tenderness near the fracture site, forward or downward sagging of the shoulder girdle, and a noticeable visual abnormality of the clavicle.
Because the scapula is protected by the chest and an intricate network of surrounding muscles, a scapular fracture is a particularly rare event accounting for less than 1 percent of adult broken bones. A substantial outside force, such as a high-speed motor vehicle collision or a fall from a significant height, is required to cause a scapular fracture. Some common indicators of a scapular fracture are considerable pain with arm movement accompanied by bruising, swelling, and/or skin abrasions to the posterior shoulder.
The proximal end of the humerus (top of the upper arm bone near the apex of the shoulder) is the most frequently affected portion of this bone. Typically, a fracture to the proximal humerus is also accompanied by soft tissue damage and additional bone fractures. Severe pain, evident swelling, and markedly reduced shoulder movement are commonly reported among individuals with a proximal humerus fracture. Dr. Frank McCormick, orthopedic shoulder specialist serving Orlando, Palm Beach County, and surrounding Florida communities, has the knowledge and understanding, as well as substantial experience, in treating shoulder fractures.
Shoulder fractures are diagnosed with a medical history and physical examination. Dr. McCormick will gather information pertinent to this condition such as the precipitating event, previous shoulder injuries, underlying health conditions, and current symptoms. A physical examination will follow to evaluate the shoulder’s range of motion as well as any areas of pain and tenderness. Diagnostic imaging studies can be particularly beneficial for confirming shoulder fractures. While x-rays can pinpoint the fracture site and identify any other bone-related injuries, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can further analyze any damage to the soft tissues or surrounding shoulder structures.
Patients with non-displaced shoulder fractures may find relief with conservative therapies alone. A combination of joint stabilization, rest, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can reduce any pain and inflammation associated with this condition. A physical therapy program focused on strengthening the shoulder girdle is often recommended when appropriate.
More invasive treatment measures are typically necessary for patients with bone displacement from the fracture or who did not respond well to initial conservative therapies. The goal of surgical intervention is to realign the displaced bone fragments and minimize the risk of premature development of arthritis. Shoulder fractures are surgically reconstructed with an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) procedure involving special plates, pins, and/or screws.
For more information on shoulder labrum and SLAP tear repairs, or to discuss your shoulder labrum treatment options, please contact the office of Frank McCormick, MD, orthopedic shoulder doctor serving Orlando, Kissimmee, Palm Beach County, Florida, and the surrounding areas.
