Shoulder Trauma
Some accidents and sports injuries may result in shoulder trauma. If you have shoulder trauma, it’s important to receive timely, expert care to prevent further trauma and restore strength, mobility, and overall shoulder function. Dr. Seiter specializes in managing shoulder trauma through a combination of surgical and non-surgical techniques. Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s specific injury and needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Treatment Options
Non-surgical treatment options for shoulder trauma may include:
- Immobilization: A sling or other immobilizer can protect the joint and promote healing by limiting movement.
- Activity Modification: You may be advised to adjust your activities or avoid activities that exacerbate shoulder pain to prevent further injury and allow healing.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help you with tailored exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion while preventing stiffness.
- Medications and Injections: Anti-inflammatory medications and/or corticosteroid injections can help to relieve inflammation, pain, and swelling, particularly for conditions like bursitis or tendonitis.
- Cold and Heat Therapy: Alternating ice packs and heat therapy can help provide relief. Ice packs can reduce swelling and pain, while heat therapy can relax the muscles and improve blood flow during recovery.
In the event of a fracture (broken bone), surgery may be necessary. Examples include:
- Humerus Fracture Surgery: Humerus fractures, which involve the upper arm bone, can vary in severity from simple breaks to complex multi-part fractures. Surgical treatment may include the use of plates, screws, or rods to realign and stabilize the bone. This procedure promotes proper healing and helps restore full arm function, particularly in cases where non-surgical methods are insufficient.
- Clavicle Fracture Surgery: A fractured clavicle (broken collarbone) is most frequently the result of a sports injury or fall. Surgical intervention may be necessary for severe or displaced fractures, and it may involve the use of plates and screws to realign the bone and ensure proper healing, reduce pain, and restore shoulder strength and mobility.
- Scapula and Glenoid Fracture Surgery: Scapula (shoulder blade) and glenoid (socket) fractures are less common but often result from high-impact trauma. These fractures can significantly impair shoulder stability and range of motion. Surgical repair involves realigning the fractured pieces and securing them with plates and screws to restore joint stability and prevent long-term complications.
Candidates for Shoulder Trauma Treatment
Candidates for shoulder trauma treatment may experience:
- Severe shoulder pain following an injury
- Visible deformity or misalignment in the shoulder area
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the shoulder
- Limited range of motion or inability to move the arm
- Grinding or popping sensations during shoulder movement
Dr. Seiter will conduct a thorough evaluation with imaging tests to determine the best treatment plan based on the type and severity of the injury.
Recovery After Shoulder Trauma
Recovery from shoulder trauma varies depending on the type and severity of the injury and the treatment performed. With the right treatment, most patients can expect pain and swelling to gradually decrease within a few weeks. It is common to need to wear a sling or immobilizer for 2 to 6 weeks to protect the shoulder. Physical therapy will likely be offered, either on its own or shortly after surgery, to restore mobility, strength, and function. Patients may be ready to return to light daily activities within 4 to 6 weeks, with a full recovery taking 3 to 6 months for most cases. Dr. Seiter and your care team will take you through a personalized recovery plan and closely monitor your progress to ensure the best possible outcome.