A shoulder fracture is a break in the shoulder joint. This often affects the humeral head, i.e. the ball of the shoulder joint.
However, injuries to the shoulder socket, collarbone or shoulder blade can also occur. A shoulder fracture is extremely painful and noticeably restricts the patient's freedom of movement. In addition to the severe pain, those affected often complain of swelling, bruising and, in rare cases, local signs of paralysis. Due to the symptoms described, immediate medical attention is required.
A fracture of the shoulder joint is often caused by a fall directly onto the shoulder or onto the outstretched arm.
The collarbone fracture is often caused by a direct fall or blow to the shoulder girdle.
Shoulder fractures occur more frequently in old age due to bone loss caused by osteoporosis. However, there is also an increased risk of injury during sporting activities. Bicycle falls or black ice accidents, for example, are a common cause of fractures or dislocations of the shoulder joint.
What all fractures have in common is a correct and comprehensive X-ray, ultrasound and CT assessment in order to determine the treatment options.
Nowadays, around 90% of shoulder fractures can be treated conservatively, without surgery. In addition to immobilization in an arm sling and adequate pain medication, physiotherapy exercises should be started relatively soon.
If it is a complex fracture with several fragments, surgical treatment is often necessary. The collarbone should be operated on if the skin over the collarbone is compromised or open or if the function of the neighboring joints is impaired or destroyed (connection to the shoulder blade or sternum).
Dr. Martin Schwarz, MSc, Prim. a.D.
Specialist for trauma surgery,
Specialist in Orthopedics and Traumatology Shoulder Center Vienna
Surgery for shoulder, knee and sports injuries