Our shoulders and elbows are amazing joints. They let us do so much, from lifting heavy boxes to throwing a baseball. But all that movement can also make them prone to injury. Two of the most common injuries we see at California Pacific Orthopaedics are fractures and dislocations.
A fracture is a big word for a broken bone. This can be a small crack or a complete break. A dislocation happens when the bones in a joint get knocked out of place. Think of it like a train coming off its tracks.
One of the most common places for these injuries is the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. This is where your collarbone (clavicle) meets the top of your shoulder blade (acromion). It’s a small joint, but it plays a big role in shoulder movement. That’s why an injury here can be so painful and disruptive.
Common Symptoms & Causes
So, how do you know if you’ve fractured or dislocated your shoulder, elbow, or AC joint? Here are some of the most common signs:
- Intense pain: This is usually the first and most obvious symptom.
- Swelling and bruising: The injured area will likely become swollen and discolored.
- A visible deformity: If you’ve dislocated a joint, you might see a bump or lump that wasn’t there before.
- Limited movement: It will probably be very painful to move your arm or shoulder.
- A “popping” sound: Some people hear a pop at the moment of injury.
What causes these injuries? Most of the time, it’s due to a sudden trauma, such as:
- A fall: Falling on your outstretched arm or directly onto your shoulder is a very common cause.
- A direct blow: This could happen in a car accident, a sports injury, or any other situation where your shoulder or elbow takes a hard hit.
- Overuse: Repetitive motions, especially in sports or certain jobs, can also lead to stress fractures or other injuries over time.
Common Risk Factors
While anyone can experience a fracture or dislocation, some people are at a higher risk. These risk factors include:
- Age: As we get older, our bones can become weaker and more prone to fractures.
- Sports: Athletes, especially those in contact sports like football or hockey, are at a higher risk of shoulder and elbow injuries.
- Certain medical conditions: Some conditions, like osteoporosis, can make your bones more brittle and more likely to break.
- Previous injuries: If you’ve injured a joint in the past, it may be more susceptible to injury in the future.
When to See a Doctor
If you’ve injured your shoulder or elbow and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. At California Pacific Orthopaedics, our team of experts can diagnose your injury and recommend the best course of treatment.
We’ll start by asking you about your symptoms and how the injury occurred. We’ll then perform a physical exam to assess the extent of the damage. In many cases, we’ll also use imaging tests, such as X-rays, to get a closer look at your bones and joints.
Treatment Options
The good news is that many fractures and dislocations can be treated without surgery. Some of the most common non-surgical treatments include:
- Immobilization: We may use a sling, cast, or brace to keep the injured joint from moving and allow it to heal.
- Medication: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers can help manage your pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Once the initial pain and swelling have gone down, physical therapy can help you regain your strength and range of motion.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a severe or unstable fracture or a joint that won’t stay in place. Our skilled surgeons at California Pacific Orthopaedics are experienced in the latest surgical techniques and will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.
What to Expect Before, During & After a Procedure
If you do need surgery, it’s natural to have questions. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
- Before the procedure: We’ll give you specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. This may include fasting for a certain period of time and stopping certain medications.
- During the procedure: The type of surgery you have will depend on the extent of your injury. A majority of procedures can be done on an outpatient basis, while others may require a short hospital stay.
- After the procedure: We’ll give you a detailed post-operative plan to follow. This will include instructions on pain management, wound care, and physical therapy. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
