Scapular injuries
The scapula is one of the main bones of the shoulder joint. It
stabilizes the shoulder from the back side. Fractures of the scapula are not
common but can occur in high-energy impact injuries, such as motor vehicle
crashes or falls. Scapula fractures may be serious when the part of the scapula
involving the shoulder joint is injured. A scapula fracture may be a sign that a serious injury to the heart,
lungs, spine, or blood vessels in the chest has occurred. Symptoms of a scapular fracture include tenderness over the scapula
and inability to raise the affected arm. The affected shoulder may look
flattened. Most scapular fractures can be treated without surgery. Treatment
includes a
sling for immobilizing the shoulder, ice, medications
to reduce pain and swelling, and
range-of-motion exercises.
Credits
| Author | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | | Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA | | Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer | | Primary Medical Reviewer | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine | | Specialist Medical Reviewer | H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | | Last Updated | September 24, 2007 |
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