Effective Treatment Options for Shoulder Bone Fractures After Injury - Orthopedics

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Shoulder fractures, particularly those resulting from falls or accidents, can lead to significant functional limitations and discomfort if not managed properly. In your mother's case, it appears she suffered a fracture in her shoulder that was deemed non-displaced, allowing for conservative management without surgery. However, her ongoing difficulties with arm elevation and function suggest that further evaluation and possibly intervention may be necessary.


Understanding the Injury
When a shoulder fracture occurs, especially in older adults, it can lead to complications such as stiffness, weakness, and limited range of motion. The shoulder joint is complex, involving bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. A fracture can disrupt this intricate balance, leading to issues like impingement or rotator cuff injuries, which may not be immediately apparent on X-rays.


Current Treatment Options
1. Physical Therapy: Continuing physical therapy is crucial. A skilled physical therapist can provide targeted exercises to improve strength and flexibility. They may also employ modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and promote healing.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. If pain persists, a physician may prescribe stronger medications or recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.

3. Activity Modification: It's essential to avoid activities that exacerbate pain or limit healing. Your mother should be cautious with movements that require lifting her arm above shoulder level until cleared by her physician.

4. Surgical Evaluation: If her symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, a reevaluation by an orthopedic surgeon may be warranted. They can assess whether the fracture has healed properly and if there are any underlying issues, such as bone spurs or impingement, that could be addressed surgically.

5. Imaging Studies: Follow-up X-rays or an MRI may be necessary to evaluate the healing process and check for any complications that could be contributing to her symptoms.


Potential for Recovery
The potential for recovery largely depends on the nature of the fracture and the individual’s overall health. In many cases, with appropriate rehabilitation, individuals can regain significant function. However, if there are complications such as malunion (improper healing of the bone) or impingement, surgical intervention may be required to restore full function.


Conclusion
In summary, while your mother’s initial treatment may have been appropriate for her fracture, her ongoing limitations warrant further investigation. It is essential to maintain open communication with her healthcare providers and advocate for a comprehensive approach to her recovery. If her current treatment plan does not yield improvements, seeking a second opinion or further imaging may be beneficial. Recovery from shoulder fractures can be a lengthy process, but with the right interventions, many individuals can return to their previous levels of function.