Shoulder-Blade (Scapula) Fracture, Glenoid Fossa

A complete or incomplete break in the glenoid fossa of the scapula (wingbone). The glenoid fossa functions as a receptacle-like a socket-for the upper end of the humerus (the large bone between the elbow and shoulder). The glenoid fossa, along with bones, tendons, joint capsules and other soft tissue, forms the shoulder.

Body Parts Involved

• Glenoid fossa of the scapula.
• Shoulder joint.
• Soft tissue around the fracture site, including nerves, tendons, ligaments, joint membranes and capsules, and blood vessels.

Causes

• Direct injury: A direct blow to the side of the shoulder produces a star-shaped minor fracture of the glenoid fossa.
• Indirect injury: Failing on a bent elbow can fracture the glenoid fossa.

Signs & Symptoms

• Severe pain at the fracture site.
• Swelling of soft tissue around the fracture.
• Visible deformity if the fracture is complete and the bone fragments' separate enough to distort normal body contours.
• Tenderness to the touch.
• Numbness in the arm and hand (sometimes).
• Cold arm and hand if the blood supply is impaired.

Treatment

Note:- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.

First Aid

• Keep the person warm with blankets to the possibility of shock.
• Cut away clothing, if possible, but don't move area to do so.
• Follow instructions for R.I.C.E., the first letters of rest, ice, compression and elevation.
• The doctor will set the broken bones with surgery or, if possible, without. This should be done as soon as possible after injury. Six or more hours after the fracture, bleeding and displacement of body fluids may lead to shock. Also, many tissues lose their elasticity and cult to return to a normal position. Most injuries the glenoid fossa require surgical treatment.

Continuing Care

• Immobilization will be necessary. A triangular sling for 3 to 4 weeks is usually sufficient.
• Use frequent ice massage. Fill a large Styrofoam cup with water and freeze. Tear a small amount of foam from the top so ice protrudes. Massage firmly over the injured area in a circle about the size of a baseball. Do this
  for 15 minutes at a time, 3 or 4 times a day, and before workouts or competition.
• After 48 hours, localized heat promotes healing by increasing blood circulation in the injured area. Use hot baths, showers, compresses, heat lamps, heating pads, and heat ointments or liniments.

Medication

Your doctor may prescribe:

• General anesthesia, local anesthesia, or muscle relaxants to make bone manipulation possible.
• Narcotic or synthetic narcotic pain relievers for severe pain.
• Stool softeners to prevent constipation due to inactivity.
• Acetaminophen (available without prescription) for mild pain after initial treatment.

Home Diet

Diagnostic Measures

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• X-rays of injured areas.

Prevention Tips

• Build your strength with a good conditioning program before beginning regular athletic practice or competition. Increased muscle mass helps protect bones and underlying tissue.
• Try to avoid falling on a bent elbow.
• Use appropriate protective equipment, such as shoulder pads for contact sports.