About this topic
The shoulder blade is a triangle-shaped bone that is the back part of your shoulder joint. Muscles protect this bone and it rarely breaks. Broken shoulder blades make up less than 1% of all broken bones. The shoulder blade is broken by an injury or accident. ‚
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What are the causes?
- Falling from a high distance
- Strong blow to the shoulder like from a car or motorcycle crash
What are the main signs?
- Very bad pain when moving the arm
- Redness or bruising around the skin near the injured part
- Swelling at the back of the shoulder
- Skin scrapes
- Bone is sticking out under or through the skin
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will do an exam and may order: ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
The doctor will decide on care based on how bad the injury is. It may include: ‚
- Rest
- Ice
- Sling or strap to keep the shoulder from moving while it heals
- Exercises for range of motion and stretching
- Physical therapy (PT)
- Surgery, including screws/plates to hold the bone in place
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Always wear your seat belt.
- Stay away from activities that could cause a fall from a high distance.
- Follow safety rules so you do not fall.
- Use protective gear when playing sports.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons ‚
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00359 ‚
American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine ‚
http://www.stopsportsinjuries.org/sports-injury-prevention.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚