How do you treat an injured scapula?

Most fractures of the scapula can be treated without surgery. Treatment involves immobilization with a sling or a shoulder immobilizer, icing and pain medications. The sling is usually kept for comfort for the first two weeks with subsequent increase of the shoulder’s range of motion.

What does a fractured scapula feel like?

In addition to pain, a person with a scapular fracture may experience: Bruising and swelling in the shoulder and upper back. A grinding sensation during shoulder movement (if movement is possible) The inability to lift the affected arm, and the desire to hold the arm to keep it and the shoulder still.

How long does it take for a scapula bone to heal?

Most fractures heal completely in about six weeks, but it can take six months to a year for your shoulder motion to return to normal. Sometimes, full motion doesn’t return. Some types of shoulder blade fractures may need surgery. The doctor has checked you carefully, but problems can develop later.

Can you injure your scapula?

Overview. Fractures of the shoulder blade are relatively uncommon injuries that result in pain and swelling in the shoulder region. These injuries are caused by high-energy, blunt trauma incidents, such as hard falls or car accidents.

How serious is a fractured scapula?

Because shoulder blade fractures are often associated with severe, potentially life-threatening injuries, they should be evaluated in a hospital’s emergency department. Immobilize the arm immediately.

How do you sleep with a broken scapula?

Holding the broken bone above your heart prevents blood from pooling and causing swelling. First, try sleeping on your back while supporting yourself on several pillows. If this doesn’t help, adjust slowly to the side position if possible. Sleep in the middle of the bed, so you don’t fall in the middle of the night.

How do you get a scapula fracture?

Scapula fractures represent less than 1% of all broken bones and many of them can be treated without surgery. High-energy, blunt trauma injuries, such as those experienced in a motorcycle or motor vehicle collision or falling from a significant height, can cause a scapula fracture.

Is it easy to fracture your scapula?

The shoulder blade (scapula) is rarely broken (broken bones are also called fractures). Of all bone breaks, shoulder blade breaks occur less than 1% of the time. Scapular fractures occur more often in young men ages 25 to 45 because of the activities and trauma they encounter.

How hard is it to fracture scapula?

According to the American Association of the Orthopaedic Surgeons, they make up less than 1 percent of all broken bones in the United States each year. Because it’s so hard to break a shoulder blade, fractures are usually caused by major traumas, such as car or motorcycle crashes, sports accidents, or extreme falls.

Can you move your shoulder if it’s fractured?

With your doctor’s guidance, you may commence shoulder movement as the fracture heals. If the arm is moved too early, this can delay healing, but too little movement will result in stiffness.