Shoulder Fracture Repair Surgery

Injuries can lead to a fracture of the ball, also known as a humerus, or socket, known as the glenoid, of the shoulder joint. Most of these injuries can be treated with conservative methods without resorting to surgery. However, some fractures are better treated with surgery to avoid complications such as arthritis. Other fractures are so complicated that they may not heal naturally without surgery.

Causes of Shoulder Fractures

Fractures of the proximal humerus may be caused by an impact on the area from a collision, auto accident, or a fall. Most scapula fractures are caused by high-energy trauma that takes place during a high-speed auto accident.

What Are the Main Shoulder Fracture Symptoms?

Some of the common symptoms of fractures include:

• Deformity of the shoulder, especially a bump
• A grinding sensation while moving the shoulder
• Inability to move the arm or shoulder
• Bruising and swelling
• Severe pain
• Tenderness

What Are Your Shoulder Fracture Treatment Options?

The type of treatment used depends on the nature of your fracture. Two major treatment methods are available — conservative treatment techniques and shoulder fracture surgery. After conducting imaging tests, the doctor will determine the best option to use for treatment. Most non-displaced fractures will be immobilized with a sling until the fracture heals. While keeping the shoulder at rest, it’s vital to keep the fingers, wrist and elbow flexible. This will help prevent stiffness in different parts of the arm.

For shoulder dislocations, the first type of treatment is to reduce the dislocation. This puts the ball back into the socket. While under mild sedation and pain relief medication, the doctor will pull the shoulder until the joint gets realigned. They will check the effect of this treatment with an x-ray. After that, you will need surgery to repair torn tissues.

If fracture fragments get displaced, you may need surgery to put the pieces together and fix them with screws, plates, pins, or wires. In some cases, if the ball of the shoulder joint is broken or crushed, shoulder replacement may be required.

How Long Is the Typical Broken Shoulder Recovery Time?

After surgery, the time needed for full recovery will depend on the severity of the original injury. For the first 10 days, you’ll need someone to assist you when you want to eat, wash, bathe, and get dressed. You also need to take pain medication to increase your comfort.

Your doctor will monitor your progress using regular x-ray tests. The total time for recovery may be up to 12 weeks. During this time, you’re expected to have physical therapy sessions and complete range-of-motion exercises.

Further Reading

Best Physical Therapy Methods for Treating Shoulder Pain and Injuries

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears