Shoulder Blade Fractures: Rare But Serious Injuries
Shoulder blade fractures, though uncommon, can occur due to severe traumas. They account for less than 1 percent of all broken bones in the U.S. each year, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).
The shoulder blade, also known as the scapula, is a triangular-shaped bone connecting the upper arm bone to the collarbone and chest wall. It consists of two parts: the scapular body and the scapular neck. The scapular body is the most commonly fractured part, followed by the scapular neck. Fractures in the glenoid and coracoid areas are rare.
Fractures usually result from major traumas like car crashes, sports accidents, or extreme falls. Symptoms include severe shoulder pain when moving the arm, inability to lift the arm, and swelling, bruising, or skin abrasion at the back of the shoulder. Diagnosis involves a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans.
Shoulder blade fractures are uncommon but serious injuries. They require immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term complications and ensure a full recovery.
