Fracture
What
Happens When the Shoulder Is Fractured?
A fracture involves
a partial or total crack through a bone. The break in a bone
usually occurs as a result of an impact injury, such as a fall
or blow to the shoulder. A fracture usually involves the clavicle
or the neck (area below the ball) of the humerus.
What
Are the Signs of a Shoulder Fracture and How Is It Diagnosed?
A shoulder fracture
that occurs after a major injury is usually accompanied by severe
pain. Within a short time, there may be redness and bruising
around the area. Sometimes a fracture is obvious because the
bones appear out of position. Both diagnosis and severity can
be confirmed by x rays.
How
Is a Shoulder Fracture Treated?
When a fracture occurs,
the doctor tries to bring the affected parts into a position
that will promote healing and restore arm movement. If the clavicle
is fractured, the patient must at first wear a strap and sling
to keep the clavicle in place. After removing the strap and
sling, the doctor will prescribe exercises to strengthen the
shoulder and restore movement. Surgery is occasionally needed
for certain clavicle fractures.
Fracture of the neck
of the humerus is usually treated with a sling or shoulder immobilizer.
If the bones are out of position, surgery may be necessary to
reset them. Exercises are also part of restoring shoulder strength
and motion.
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