Hospital | |
Scapula Fracture(Shoulder Blade Fracture)by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionThe scapula is a triangle-shaped bone in the shoulder. It is important to movements of the shoulder and arm. A scapula fracture is a break to this bone. CausesA scapula fracture is caused by a blow to the bone. It is most often caused by trauma. Risk FactorsFactors that may increase your risk of a scapula fracture include:
SymptomsSymptoms may include:
This type of fracture happens with a lot of trauma. There may also be damage to ribs, lungs, or collar bone. DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and past health. You will also be asked how the injury occurred. A physical exam will be done. Images of your shoulder and chest may be done with:
TreatmentMost scapula fractures heal without surgery. It may take 6 months to 1 year to regain full movement in the shoulder. Treatment options include: Supportive CareA sling may be needed. It will help protect and support the shoulder while it heals. It may also help keep the bones aligned. Exercise or a rehab program may be needed after the bone heals. It will help regain strength and movement in the shoulder. SurgeryA severe fracture may need surgery. It may be needed to bring pieces of the bone together. PreventionAccidents can't always be prevented. The following may reduce the risk of a fracture in an accident:
Some people have a high risk of falls. Safety steps around the house may help to reduce this risk. RESOURCES:The American Academy of Family Physicians http://familydoctor.org/ Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons ...(Click grey area to select URL) http://www.orthoinfo.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca References:
Scapular fracture. Radiopaedia website. Available at: https://radiopaedia.org/articles/scapular-fracture. Accessed March 3, 2019.
Scapula fracture—emergency management. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T903864/Scapula-fracture-emergency-management#Imaging-tests. Accessed March 3, 2019. Scapula (shoulder blade) fractures. Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated March 2012. Accessed March 3, 2019. Last reviewed February 3, 2019 by Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM Last Updated: 3/8/2019 | |