Broken Shoulder (Fractured Humerus)
Article by John Miller
Broken Shoulder
Understanding Shoulder Fractures
When a bone near the shoulder joint breaks, we call it a shoulder fracture or a broken shoulder. Often, this involves the humerus, the upper arm bone connecting the shoulder to the elbow. It can break in many places, including its neck. Knowing where the fracture is helps doctors decide on the best treatment, especially as key shoulder muscles connect to this bone.
Fractures in the shoulder often result from falls. Sometimes, another fracture might occur in the shoulder at the same time.
Fracture or Break: Which is More Severe?
A fracture and a break mean the same thing, no matter what others might tell you. “Fracture” is just the medical term for “broken bone”. You’ll find different types of fractures like greenstick (incomplete), transverse (across the bone), and spiral (around the bone), among others.
Always let an orthopaedic surgeon check out any shoulder fractures.
Treatment for a Broken Shoulder
If an X-ray confirms a broken shoulder, doctors usually support it with a collar and cuff sling. This sling, holding your arm at the wrist, uses your elbow’s weight to help the broken bones heal correctly.
Avoid putting anything under your elbow as it can push the humerus up and misalign the bones. That’s why triangular slings don’t work well. When resting, don’t use a pillow to support your arm.
Wear the collar and cuff for around six weeks, even over your clothes. You can take it off to wash. The first two weeks might be painful, so consult your doctor about pain management.
In some situations, a surgeon might recommend surgery to fix the broken shoulder.
Physiotherapy & Exercises for Healing
If you don’t need surgery, wear the collar and cuff as instructed by your shoulder specialist. While doing so, keep moving your fingers and wrist to avoid stiffness. Your doctor or physiotherapist will guide you on when to start various exercises. Remember, don’t rush things; you don’t want to worsen your shoulder fracture.
Movement helps prevent stiffness, but healing your fractured humerus remains the main goal. Always listen to health experts to recover full movement quickly.
For the best exercises and timings, rely on your physiotherapist. If your shoulder feels stiffer, seek their advice within two weeks of the injury or surgery for optimal results.
Will Recovery be Complete?
Most likely, yes! Expect improvements in your broken shoulder for up to a year, with significant progress early on.
Helpful Tips for a Broken Shoulder
- Washing: Remove the collar and cuff and swing your arm gently to wash underneath.
- Driving: Don’t drive while wearing a collar and cuff. Wait at least eight weeks after removing the sling before driving again.
- Work: Depending on your job, you might return within two weeks. If you have a hands-on job, wait at least three months.
- Sport: Engage in light, non-contact sports after six weeks, but reduce your playtime.
- Smoking: Avoid it. Smoking can delay bone healing.
Potential Complications
Sometimes, a broken shoulder doesn’t heal right, and you might need corrective surgery. If the fracture heals wrongly, surgery can correct it or even put in an artificial joint.
General Advice
After a shoulder fracture, you might see significant bruising down your arm, which can linger for days. This injury is common, especially in older folks, and the shoulder might feel stiffer than before.
For any concerns, always reach out to your physiotherapist or doctor.
In Summary
A broken shoulder or fractured humerus can be a challenging experience for anyone. Whether caused by a fall or another form of trauma, understanding the nature of the injury and the available treatments is crucial. With proper care, support from medical professionals, and physiotherapy, most people make a full recovery.
It’s essential to follow the advice given, avoid certain activities during the healing process, and remain patient. As always, if concerns arise or if symptoms worsen, seeking guidance from your physiotherapist or doctor is paramount. Remember, taking care of your shoulder now ensures better mobility and health in the future.
Related Articles
- Post-Fracture Physiotherapy: Focuses on rehabilitation services to promote healing and regain strength following fractures, directly applicable to a broken shoulder.
- Shoulder Pain: This article covers various causes of shoulder pain, including muscle tightness, weakness, or abnormal contraction patterns, offering insights into identifying and managing these causes.
- Rotator Cuff Injury: Explores symptoms like pain extending to the elbow and discomfort when lying on the affected shoulder, providing guidance on identifying and managing rotator cuff injuries.
- Physiotherapy for Shoulder Pain: Discusses the role of physiotherapy in alleviating discomfort, improving mobility, and optimising shoulder health, making it a valuable resource for those experiencing shoulder pain.
- Rotator Cuff Tear: Addresses the causes, symptoms, and treatment of rotator cuff tears, which can occur from sudden trauma or repeated microtrauma, providing essential information for those affected by this injury.
- Rotator Cuff Exercises: Highlights the importance of strengthening the rotator cuff for shoulder health and stability, offering exercise recommendations specifically for the rotator cuff.
- Shoulder Impingement: Discusses symptoms of shoulder impingement and effective treatment strategies, focusing on how to manage this condition and prevent its worsening over time.
- Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: Offers insights into this condition, which affects the tendons in the shoulder, leading to pain and limited mobility, and discusses various injuries to the rotator cuff tendons.
- Sports Injury Physiotherapy: Provides immediate care for sports-related injuries, which could include shoulder fractures, focusing on quick recovery and preventing further damage.
- Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy: Discusses comprehensive assessment and treatment for conditions like strains, sprains, and overuse injuries, relevant to shoulder fracture cases.
Article by John Miller
What are the Common Causes of Shoulder Pain?
Understanding the Causes of Shoulder Pain: A Guide for the General Public
Shoulder pain is a common issue that can stem from various injuries and conditions. Identifying the cause of your shoulder pain is essential for effective treatment and recovery. This article explains the most common causes of shoulder pain and offers practical advice on what to do next.
Rotator Cuff
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder. Injuries here are a frequent cause of shoulder pain. Common conditions include:
- Rotator Cuff Injury: A common condition causing shoulder pain, often due to repetitive overhead activities.
- Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: Inflammation or damage to the rotator cuff tendons, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
- Rotator Cuff Calcific Tendinopathy: Characterised by calcium deposits in the rotator cuff tendons, causing intense pain.
- Rotator Cuff Tear: Involves a tear in the rotator cuff muscles, often resulting from injury or wear over time.
- Bicep Tendinopathy: Affects the bicep tendon, leading to pain in the front of the shoulder.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Shoulder impingement occurs when shoulder tendons are pinched during arm movements, causing pain and limited mobility. Conditions related to impingement include:
- Shoulder Impingement: A condition where shoulder tendons are pinched during arm movements, causing pain and limited mobility.
- Shoulder Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac in the shoulder, causing pain and discomfort.
- Swimmer’s Shoulder: An overuse injury common in swimmers, causing shoulder pain and impingement symptoms.
Shoulder Stiffness
Stiffness in the shoulder can develop gradually and lead to significant discomfort. Key conditions include:
- Adhesive Capsulitis / Frozen Shoulder: A condition where the shoulder becomes stiff and painful, often developing gradually without a specific cause.
- Shoulder Arthritis: Degenerative joint disease affecting the shoulder, causing pain and stiffness.
Shoulder Instability
Instability in the shoulder can lead to recurrent issues. Common causes are:
- Shoulder Dislocation: Occurs when the shoulder joint is forced out of position, causing pain and instability.
- Functional Shoulder Instability: Chronic instability in the shoulder, often leading to recurrent subluxations, dislocations and pain.
Acromioclavicular Joint
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint can be damaged, often in athletes or after falls. Conditions include:
- AC Joint Injury: Involves damage to the acromioclavicular joint, common in athletes and after falls.
Bone Conditions
Bone-related issues can also cause shoulder pain. These include:
- Broken Shoulder / Fractured Humerus: A break in the shoulder bone, often resulting from trauma or falls.
- Stress Fracture: A small crack in the bone, typically caused by overuse and repetitive activities.
Post-Operative Physiotherapy
Recovery from shoulder surgery often requires tailored exercises and therapies. Important procedures include:
- Subacromial Decompression: A surgical procedure to alleviate shoulder impingement symptoms.
- Shoulder Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery for various shoulder conditions.
- Acromioplasty: Surgery to reshape the acromion and relieve impingement.
- Rotator Cuff Repair: Surgical repair of a torn rotator cuff.
- SLAP Repair: Surgery to fix a specific type of labrum tear in the shoulder.
- Biceps Tenodesis: Surgical procedure to reattach the biceps tendon.
- Biceps Tenotomy: Involves cutting the biceps tendon to relieve pain.
- Total Shoulder Replacement: Replacement of the shoulder joint with artificial components.
Post-Operative Shoulder Rehabilitation: Essential for recovery, involving tailored exercises and therapies to regain strength and mobility after shoulder surgery.
Muscle Conditions
Muscle-related issues causing shoulder pain include:
- Muscle Strain: A tear or stretch in a muscle, often causing pain and limited movement.
- DOMS – Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness: Muscle pain and stiffness that occurs hours after unfamiliar or strenuous exercise.
Neck Arm Syndromes
Pain in the shoulder can originate from other areas, such as the neck. Conditions include:
- Neck Arm Pain: Pain that originates in the neck and travels down to the arm and shoulder.
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, leading to shoulder pain.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A condition where nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib are compressed, causing pain in the shoulder area.
Systemic Conditions
Chronic conditions can also affect the shoulders. These include:
- Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, including in the shoulder.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that can cause joint pain and damage throughout the body, including the shoulders.
What to Do Next?
If you are experiencing shoulder pain, it is essential to seek professional advice from a physiotherapist. They can assess your condition and develop a personalised treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Conclusion
Shoulder pain can significantly impact your daily life, but understanding its causes is the first step towards effective treatment. By recognising the signs and symptoms of different conditions, you can take the appropriate actions to manage your pain and improve your quality of life.
Shoulder Products & FAQs
Explore our range of shoulder products and find answers to frequently asked questions about shoulder pain and treatment options.
Causes of Shoulder Pain FAQs
1. What are the common causes of shoulder pain?
Common causes include rotator cuff injuries, shoulder impingement, adhesive capsulitis, shoulder instability, AC joint injuries, arthritis, fractures, and muscle strains.
2. How can a physiotherapist help with shoulder pain?
A physiotherapist can assess your condition, provide tailored exercises, and offer treatments to reduce pain and improve mobility.
3. What is rotator cuff tendinopathy?
Rotator cuff tendinopathy is inflammation or damage to the rotator cuff tendons, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
4. How is shoulder impingement treated?
Treatment often includes physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, surgery to relieve pressure on the tendons.
5. What should I do if I have a frozen shoulder?
Consult a physiotherapist for a tailored exercise program to improve mobility and reduce pain.
6. Can shoulder pain be related to neck problems?
Yes, conditions like cervical radiculopathy can cause shoulder pain due to nerve compression in the neck.
Related Articles
- Rotator Cuff Injuries: Discover causes and treatments for rotator cuff injuries.
- Shoulder Impingement: Learn how to manage and treat shoulder impingement.
- Frozen Shoulder: Understand the symptoms and treatments for adhesive capsulitis.
- Shoulder Dislocation: Find out how to manage shoulder dislocations.
- AC Joint Injury: Explore treatment options for AC joint injuries.
- Shoulder Arthritis: Learn about managing pain and stiffness from arthritis.
- Post-Operative Shoulder Rehabilitation: Understand the recovery process after shoulder surgery.
- Muscle Strain Treatments: Discover effective ways to treat muscle strains.
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Learn how neck issues can cause shoulder pain.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Find out about symptoms and treatments for this condition.
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Exercise Balls, Back, Exercise Equipment, Knee, Shoulder
Exercise Ball – 300kg Antiburst
$32.00 – $57.00 -
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Shoulder Pain FAQs
Your Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Managing Shoulder Injuries
Welcome to the "Shoulder Pain FAQs" page, your go-to resource for understanding various aspects of shoulder pain, injuries, and how to manage them effectively. The shoulder is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of movements, but it is also susceptible to various injuries and conditions that can cause discomfort and limitations in daily activities.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the most common shoulder injuries, their causes, and how to identify and treat them. We'll also address frequently asked questions about specific shoulder conditions, providing you with valuable insights into your shoulder health.
When Should You Worry About Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain can be caused by numerous factors, ranging from minor strains to more severe injuries. Knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial to prevent further damage and facilitate timely recovery.
Common Shoulder Injuries
We'll swing into the most prevalent shoulder injuries, shedding light on their causes, symptoms, and appropriate treatment options.
More info: Common Shoulder Injuries
What Causes Shoulder Pain?
Understanding the root causes of shoulder pain is fundamental to addressing the issue effectively. We'll explore the various factors that can lead to shoulder discomfort and how to mitigate them.
More info: What Causes Shoulder Pain?
What is Your Scapulohumeral Rhythm?
The scapulohumeral rhythm plays a vital role in shoulder function and movement. We'll explain what it is and its significance in maintaining a healthy shoulder.
More info: What is Your Scapulohumeral Rhythm?
Rotator Cuff: An In-Depth Analysis
The rotator cuff is a critical group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder. We'll dive into its anatomy, functions, and common problems associated with it.
More info: Rotator Cuff: An In-Depth Analysis
How Can You Tell If You Have Torn Your Rotator Cuff?
Identifying a torn rotator cuff can be challenging, but we'll provide you with essential signs to look out for and when to seek professional evaluation.
More info: How Can You Tell If You Have Torn Your Rotator Cuff?
Can You Diagnose A Torn Rotator Cuff Without An MRI?
Find out about diagnostic methods for a torn rotator cuff, including whether an MRI is always necessary for accurate diagnosis.
More info: Can You Diagnose A Torn Rotator Cuff Without An MRI?
Can You Lift Your Arm With A Rotator Cuff Tear?
Discover the limitations and challenges you may face if you have a torn rotator cuff and how to manage arm movement during the healing process.
More info: Can You Lift Your Arm With A Rotator Cuff Tear?
Will Your Shoulder Blade Hurt With A Torn Rotator Cuff?
Learn about the possible relationship between a torn rotator cuff and shoulder blade pain, and what it indicates about your shoulder health.
More info: Will Your Shoulder Blade Hurt With A Torn Rotator Cuff?
Will A Cortisone Injection Help A Torn Rotator Cuff?
Cortisone injections are sometimes used for shoulder pain, but their effectiveness in treating a torn rotator cuff is a point of interest we'll explore.
More info: Will A Cortisone Injection Help A Torn Rotator Cuff?
How Can You Make Your Rotator Cuff Heal Faster?
We'll provide practical tips and strategies to aid in the healing process of a torn rotator cuff and restore shoulder function more rapidly.
More info: How Can You Make Your Rotator Cuff Heal Faster?
Shoulder Bursitis: Understanding the Condition
What is shoulder bursitis, and how does it differ from other shoulder injuries? Get insights into this inflammatory condition and how to manage it.
More info: Shoulder Bursitis: Understanding the Condition
Shoulder Impingement: Causes and Solutions
Understand the concept of the shoulder impingement zone and the factors contributing to rotator cuff impingement and bursitis.
More info: Shoulder Impingement: Causes and Solutions
Frozen Shoulder: Overcoming the Stiffness
Discover how to unfreeze a frozen shoulder and regain a full range of motion through effective therapeutic approaches.
More info: Frozen Shoulder: Overcoming the Stiffness
Shoulder Dislocation/Instability: Seeking Stability
Explore the causes of shoulder dislocation and instability, and the fastest ways to promote healing and prevent future occurrences.
More info: Shoulder Dislocation/Instability: Seeking Stability
Can You Fix Shoulder Instability?
Find out about treatment options to address shoulder instability and regain stability in the joint.
More info: Can You Fix Shoulder Instability?
AC Joint: Identifying and Managing Injuries
Learn how to recognise an injured AC joint and what steps to take for proper care and recovery.
More info: AC Joint: Identifying and Managing Injuries
Swimmers Shoulder: Causes and Remedies
If you're a swimmer or engage in repetitive overhead activities, understanding the causes of swimmer's shoulder and how to prevent it is essential.
More info: Swimmers Shoulder: Causes and Remedies
We hope this comprehensive guide will prove invaluable in your journey to understand and manage shoulder pain and injuries. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment based on your specific condition. Let's dive into the world of shoulder health together!
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Exercise Balls, Back, Exercise Equipment, Knee, Shoulder
Exercise Ball – 300kg Antiburst
$32.00 – $57.00
