What Is A Broken Shoulder?

Injuries to the shoulder joint can lead to a fractured shoulder, which can be caused by sudden impact or force during sports activities or traumatic events. Such fractures occur within the joint structure and can be detected through an x-ray, which shows a break or crack in the bone with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating shoulder fractures, Dr. Ahmed offers individualized treatment plans that are tailored to the specific bone affected, which may include the collarbone, humerus, and/or shoulder blade. Rest assured that by seeking Dr. Ahmed’s expert care, you will receive a plagiarism-free, accurate description of shoulder fractures and their treatment.The classification of a shoulder fracture is primarily based on whether it is displaced or non-displaced. In a non-displaced fracture, the broken bone fragments remain aligned on either side of the break or crack. Conversely, a displaced fracture occurs when the bone pieces on either side of the fracture do not line up. Treatment for displaced fractures typically involves manipulation to restore proper alignment and normal shoulder anatomy.

Three distinct bones in the shoulder joint can experience a fracture, including:

  • Collarbone- A clavicle fracture
  • Upper arm bone- A humerus fracture
  • Shoulder blade- A scapula fracture

What Are The Common Types Of Shoulder Fractures?

Fractures of the clavicle and humerus are the most frequently occurring types of shoulder fractures. A clavicle fracture, which can happen to individuals of all ages, often occurs in the middle of the clavicle or where it meets the sternum or shoulder blade. This type of fracture can be caused by a direct or indirect impact, such as from a fall or collision, resulting in a visible deformity or bump at the fracture site. In some cases, a bone fragment may cause a “tent” deformity.

On the other hand, a humerus fracture can occur due to a fall or direct impact and is more commonly seen in older individuals with poor bone density due to conditions like osteoporosis. Physicians typically classify humerus fractures into different categories based on the location of the fracture, including distal humeral fractures, humeral shaft fractures, and proximal humeral fractures.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Shoulder Fracture?

The symptoms of a fractured shoulder are easily recognizable in many patients since they occur immediately following a collision, fall or automobile accident. Symptoms include pain at the injured area in combination with tenderness, bruising and swelling. Certain patients may also experience a deformity (bump) under the skin at the fracture site.

How To Know If You Have A Broken Shoulder

If an individual suspects they have a shoulder fracture, it is recommended to seek medical attention at an urgent care facility or emergency room. A complete physical examination of the affected shoulder, along with a series of x-rays, is typically performed to diagnose fractures such as clavicle or humerus fractures. In more severe cases, an MRI or CT scan may be utilized to obtain a clearer view of the fracture pattern and location.

Do You Need Surgery For A Fractured Shoulder?

Many fractured shoulder cases heal in approximately four months with non-surgical treatment. Dr. Nawaid Ahmed typically stabilizes the injured joint in a sling or similar device to immobilize the joint, allowing the bone to heal back together. Once the pain has subsided and the bone has sufficiently healed, Dr. Nawaid Ahmed will commonly prescribe a physical therapy program designed to help regain strength and motion of the joint.

How To Treat A Fractured Shoulder With Surgery?

Dr. Nawaid Ahmed assesses the necessity of shoulder surgery based on several factors, such as injury severity, patient age, activity level, and risk of developing osteoarthritis if the fracture is left untreated. If the patient is physically active and there is significant separation at the bone ends, a clavicle or humerus fracture is often treated surgically. Dr. Ahmed offers various surgical techniques to address different types of shoulder fractures, including:

Percutaneous pinning: This involves placing pins in the bone to secure them back in place.
Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF): This technique involves opening up the fracture, realigning the bones, and inserting a plate and screws to hold them together.
Shoulder hemiarthroplasty: This surgical procedure involves replacing the humeral head (the ball of the joint) if too many bone pieces are present.

Dr. Nawaid Ahmed surgical approach is tailored to each patient’s unique needs and aims to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient.