Shoulder Fractures

Topics | Table of Contents

Shoulder Fractures: Treatment and Recovery with Op. Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz

Shoulder fractures occur when the bones of the shoulder joint break, usually as a result of trauma or falls. As an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in shoulder fractures, Op. Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz supports a faster recovery by offering patients the most suitable treatment methods. Because the shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, these fractures can seriously affect a person's daily life.

What Are Shoulder Fractures?

Shoulder fractures usually occur when one or more of the bones of the shoulder joint break. The most common types are fractures of the humerus (upper arm bone) and the clavicle (collarbone). These fractures are more common in athletes and older people.

Symptoms of Shoulder Fractures

• Severe pain and tenderness
• Restricted shoulder movement
• Swelling and bruising
• Deformity of the shoulder and an apparent change in arm length
• Numbness in the hands and fingers

Diagnosing Shoulder Fractures

Op. Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz makes an accurate diagnosis for patients with a suspected shoulder fracture through a comprehensive assessment and appropriate tests. The main methods used to diagnose shoulder fractures are:

• X-ray: The first-choice imaging method for determining the location, type and severity of the fracture.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Used to assess damage to soft tissues and ligaments.
• Computed Tomography (CT): Preferred when the fracture needs to be examined in detail.

Treatment of Shoulder Fractures

Op. Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz uses a variety of methods to treat shoulder fractures, with the aim of helping patients recover as soon as possible. The treatment process varies depending on the type and severity of the fracture. The main treatment methods are:

1. Conservative Treatment

Mild shoulder fractures may not require surgery. Conservative treatment usually involves rest and immobilisation to allow the fracture to heal. During this period, a splint or sling is used to keep the shoulder still. If the fracture does not heal despite conservative treatment, surgery may be needed.

2. Surgical Treatment

Surgical treatment is needed for more serious shoulder fractures. Op. Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz uses various surgical methods to treat shoulder fractures:

• Plates and Screws: Screws and plates are used to fix the broken bone so that it heals properly.
• Total Shoulder Replacement: Particularly in older patients, a shoulder replacement may be performed if the fractured bone cannot be fully repaired.

3. Arthroscopic Surgery

Some shoulder fractures can also be treated with arthroscopic surgery. This is a minimally invasive procedure performed through small incisions. Arthroscopic surgery can shorten recovery and help the patient return to normal life more quickly.

Recovery after a Shoulder Fracture

The recovery process varies according to the type of fracture, whether surgery was needed and the patient's age. Op. Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz provides a comprehensive rehabilitation plan to support patients during recovery. The following steps are important:

• Physiotherapy: Regular physiotherapy is used to strengthen the shoulder muscles and restore mobility.
• Pain Management: Managing pain is important during recovery. Medication or other pain-relief methods may be used.
• Early Mobilisation: Early mobilisation after surgery helps the shoulder joint recover more quickly.

Shoulder fractures are health problems that require prompt treatment. Op. Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz supports a healthy recovery by offering each patient the treatment most suited to their condition. Anyone with a suspected shoulder fracture should see an orthopaedic specialist as soon as possible and begin appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.