The Shoulder Blade (scapula) is a triangular-shaped bone that is protected by a complex system of surrounding muscles. 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. Other major injuries often accompany Scapular Fractures, such as fractures in the Shoulder, collarbone and ribs, or damage to the head, lungs, or spinal cord.
One or more parts of the Scapula may be fractured.
The most common symptoms of a Scapula Fracture include :
X-Ray of shoulder - Anterior Posterior and Axillary view CT Scan MRI
Non-surgical treatment with a simple sling works for most fractures of the scapula. The sling holds your Shoulder in the place while the bone gets healed. Your doctor may want you to start moving your Shoulder within the first week after the injury to minimize the risk of Shoulder and elbow stiffness. The sling is discontinued as your pain improves. Passive stretching exercises should be continued until complete shoulder motion returns. This may take 6 months to 1 year.
Certain types of Scapular Fractures may need surgery: