Shoulder Fracture Care in Mount Pleasant, SC
A shoulder fracture can make even simple movements painful and significantly limit your ability to work, exercise, or perform daily activities. Blake Ohlson, M.D. provides comprehensive shoulder fracture care in Mount Pleasant, SC, offering accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment for fractures involving the clavicle, scapula, and proximal humerus. Whether your injury results from a fall, sports accident, or motor vehicle collision, prompt orthopedic evaluation is essential to promote proper healing, restore shoulder function, and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
What is a Shoulder Fracture?
A break in the bone that makes up the shoulder joint is called a shoulder fracture. The clavicle (collarbone) and end of the humerus (upper arm bone) closest to the shoulder are the bones that usually are fractured. The scapula, or shoulder blade, is not easily fractured because of its protective cover of surrounding muscles and chest tissue.
What are the Causes of Shoulder Fracture?
Clavicle and humerus fractures can occur by a direct hit from a motor vehicle accident, collision or fall. A fracture of the scapula can occur by high-energy trauma during an accident from a high-speed motor vehicle.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Shoulder Fracture?
The common signs and symptoms may include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Difficulty in lifting the arm
- Numbness, tingling or coldness of the hand and forearm
- A popping sound also referred to as crepitus, heard or felt at the time of the fracture
How is a Shoulder Fracture Diagnosed?
A shoulder fracture is usually diagnosed based on a thorough physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays and CT scans.
How is a Shoulder Fracture Treated?
The treatment for a shoulder fracture is based on the type of fracture. Treatment can include either non-surgical or surgical methods.
Clavicle Fracture Care
A broken clavicle usually heals without surgery, but if the bone ends have shifted out of place (displaced), surgery is recommended to align the bone ends and hold them stable during healing.
Surgery for clavicle fractures may be considered in the following circumstances:
- Multiple fractures
- Compound (open) fractures
- Fractures associated with nerve or blood vessel damage and/or scapula fracture
- Overlapping of the broken ends of bone (shortened clavicle)
Plates and Screws
During this procedure, your surgeon will reposition the broken bone ends into their normal position and then use special screws or metal plates to hold the bone fragments in place. These plates and screws are usually left in the bone. If they cause irritation, they can be removed after the fracture heals.
Pins
Placement of pins may also be considered to hold the fracture in position, and the incision required is also smaller. They often cause irritation in the skin at the site of insertion and must be removed once the fracture heals.
Percutaneous Elastic Intramedullary Nailing
This is a newer and less invasive procedure with fewer complications. It is considered a safe method for fixation of displaced clavicle fractures in adolescents and athletes, as it allows rapid healing and a faster return to sports. The procedure is performed under fluoroscopic guidance (live x-ray). It involves a 1-cm incision near the sternoclavicular joint (where the collarbone meets the breastbone), after which an elastic nail is inserted inside the canal of the clavicle. Then the nail is manipulated to reach the fracture site. A second operation to remove the nail will be performed after 2-3 months.
Scapular Fracture Care
Most scapular fractures are not significantly displaced due to the strong supporting soft tissue structures surrounding it. Therefore, most scapular fractures are treated conservatively and with early motion to reduce the risk of stiffness. They usually heal without affecting shoulder movement.
Conservative Treatment
Conservative treatment options for scapula fractures include:
- Immobilization: A sling is used for comfort and to support the shoulder to allow healing to take place. This is usually worn for about 3-6 weeks depending on the type of fracture and how well you heal.
- Prescription Medications: Pain medications will be prescribed for your comfort during the healing process.
- Physical Therapy: Early progressive range-of-motion exercises are essential in restoring full shoulder function. Your physician will most likely refer you to a physical therapist for instruction on proper exercises and early motion of the shoulder to prevent complications.
Surgical Treatment for Scapula Fracture
Fractures of the scapula involving the neck or glenoid (cavity) or with severe displacement have been associated with poor outcomes when treated non-operatively and usually require surgical intervention to realign the bones properly to restore function and pain-free range of motion.
Scapular fracture repair surgery has historically been performed through a large, open incision. Newer, minimally invasive techniques have evolved and surgery to repair scapular fractures can now be performed through arthroscopy.
Proximal Humerus Fracture Care
Most proximal humerus fractures are minimally displaced and can be treated with conservative approaches such as the use of a sling to immobilize and early physical therapy to improve the functional outcome. Surgery may be necessary for displaced fractures. The multiple fragments are fixed with plates, screws or pins, and in severe cases, shoulder replacement surgery is performed.
Why Choose Dr. Blake Ohlson for Shoulder Fracture Care in Mount Pleasant, SC?
Successful recovery from a shoulder fracture begins with an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan. Dr. Blake Ohlson combines expertise in orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, and shoulder care to help patients regain strength, mobility, and function after injury.
Patients throughout Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Summerville, and surrounding South Carolina communities trust Dr. Ohlson because he provides:
- Comprehensive evaluation of shoulder fractures using advanced diagnostic imaging
- Personalized treatment plans based on the fracture type, severity, and activity level
- Expertise in both non-surgical fracture management and advanced surgical techniques
- Emphasis on restoring shoulder strength, stability, and range of motion
- Coordinated rehabilitation programs to support a safe recovery
- Compassionate, patient-focused care from diagnosis through rehabilitation
Dr. Ohlson carefully explains every treatment option, helping patients understand the expected healing process and make informed decisions about their orthopedic care.
FAQs About Shoulder Fracture Care in Mount Pleasant, SC
What are the symptoms of a shoulder fracture?
Common symptoms include severe shoulder pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty moving or lifting the arm, tenderness, and sometimes numbness or tingling in the arm or hand. Some patients may also notice a grinding or popping sensation at the time of injury.
How is a shoulder fracture diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically includes a physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays. In some cases, CT scans may be recommended to better evaluate the fracture pattern and help guide treatment planning.
Can a shoulder fracture heal without surgery?
Many shoulder fractures can heal successfully with conservative treatment, including immobilization in a sling, pain management, and physical therapy. Surgery may be recommended if the fracture is displaced, unstable, involves multiple fragments, or affects joint alignment.
How long does it take for a shoulder fracture to heal?
Healing time varies depending on the type and severity of the fracture, as well as your overall health. Many fractures begin healing within several weeks, while complete recovery of strength and mobility may take several months with rehabilitation.
When should I see an orthopedic specialist after a shoulder injury?
You should seek prompt medical evaluation if you experience significant shoulder pain after a fall or accident, cannot move your arm normally, notice visible deformity, or have swelling, numbness, or persistent pain that does not improve.
Expert Shoulder Fracture Care in Mount Pleasant, SC
If you have suffered a shoulder injury or suspect a fracture, Dr. Blake Ohlson provides comprehensive orthopedic evaluation and personalized shoulder fracture care in Mount Pleasant, SC. From conservative management to advanced surgical treatment when necessary, he develops individualized care plans focused on relieving pain, restoring function, and helping patients safely return to their daily activities.
Contact our office today to schedule an evaluation and begin your recovery with experienced orthopedic care.