WHAT ARE SHOULDER FRACTURES?

Our shoulders are one of the most flexible and important joints in the body, enabling a wide range of movements. However, because of their mobility and structure, they are also vulnerable to injuries, especially fractures. A shoulder fracture occurs when there’s a break in one of the bones that make up the shoulder joint.

◼️Acromioclavicular Joint (AC Joint):
Located at the top of the shoulder, formed by the acromion (part of the scapula) and the clavicle.
◼️Glenohumeral Joint:
A ball-and-socket joint formed by the humeral head (“the ball”) and the glenoid (part of the scapula).

When any of these bones break, the result is a shoulder fracture, which can vary in severity and location.

TYPES OF SHOULDER FRACTURES?

Now you know that three bones form the shoulder joint; hence, the location of the break defines the type of shoulder fracture. Here are the three types you should know:

◼️Clavicle Fracture
A break in the collarbone, usually caused by trauma such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries.
◼️Proximal Humerus Fracture
This occurs in the upper part of the arm bone, near the shoulder joint. It often results from direct trauma, falls, or collisions. The humeral head, known as “the ball” of the joint, is typically involved.
◼️Scapula Fracture
The scapula (shoulder blade) is a strong bone, so breaking it usually requires significant trauma, such as high-impact sports injuries or automobile accidents.

SYMPTOMS OF SHOULDER FRACTURES?

Fractures are painful injuries, and shoulder fractures are no exception. Common signs and symptoms include:

◼️Severe shoulder pain
◼️Difficulty or inability to move the affected arm
◼️Swelling and bruising around the shoulder
◼️Tenderness to touch
◼️A visible bump at the fracture site (common in clavicle fractures)
◼️Discoloration around the upper arm

WHAT CAUSES SHOULDER FRACTURES?

◼️Automobile accidents: High-energy collisions are a leading cause.
◼️Sports injuries: Contact sports like football and hockey increase the risk.
◼️Falls: The direction of the fall often determines which part of the shoulder is injured.
◼️Direct trauma: A heavy blow or strike to the shoulder can also cause fractures.

For more information, talk to a healthcare provider.

If you have any questions about Shoulder Fractures, Please feel free to leave a comment.

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