Greater Tuberosity Fracture: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Learn everything you need to know about greater tuberosity fracture, a common injury that affects the shoulder. Discover its causes, symptoms, non-surgical treatment options, and how surgery is performed.

What is a greater tuberosity fracture?

A greater tuberosity fracture is a break in the bony bump at the top of the humerus, the upper arm bone. This fracture is often caused by a fall or direct impact to the shoulder.

Symptoms of a greater tuberosity fracture include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the shoulder. Treatment typically involves immobilizing the shoulder in a sling for several weeks, followed by physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength.

How is a greater tuberosity fracture diagnosed?

A greater tuberosity fracture is typically diagnosed based on a physical exam and X-rays. The doctor will check for pain, tenderness, and swelling around the shoulder. They will also ask about the patient's medical history and how the injury occurred.

X-rays will show the location and severity of the fracture. In some cases, an MRI may be ordered to get a better view of the soft tissues around the shoulder.

How is a greater tuberosity fracture treated?

Treatment for a greater tuberosity fracture typically involves immobilizing the shoulder in a sling for several weeks. This allows the bone to heal properly.

Once the bone has healed, the patient will start physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength in the shoulder.

What is the outlook for a greater tuberosity fracture?

The outlook for a greater tuberosity fracture is generally good. Most people make a full recovery with non-surgical treatment.

However, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions carefully to prevent complications, such as stiffness and weakness in the shoulder.

Greater Tuberosity Fracture Symptoms

The most common symptoms of a greater tuberosity fracture are pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the shoulder. The pain is usually worse with movement and may be accompanied by a feeling of weakness or instability in the shoulder.

Other symptoms of a greater tuberosity fracture may include:

• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Crepitus (a grating sensation felt when moving the shoulder)
• Deformity of the shoulder

If you experience any of these symptoms after a fall or direct impact to the shoulder, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of a greater tuberosity fracture can help to prevent complications, such as stiffness and weakness in the shoulder.

When to see a doctor

If you experience any of the following symptoms after a fall or direct impact to the shoulder, it is important to see a doctor right away:

• Severe pain
• Swelling that does not improve after a few days
• Deformity of the shoulderInability to move the shoulder li>Neurological symptoms, such as numbness or tingling in the arm or hand

Greater Tuberosity Fracture Causes

A greater tuberosity fracture is a break in the bony bump at the top of the humerus, the upper arm bone. This fracture is often caused by a fall or direct impact to the shoulder.

Causes of greater tuberosity fractures

• Falls, especially falls onto an outstretched arm
• Direct impact to the shoulder, such as from a car accident or sports injury
• Weightlifting injuries
• Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones
• Rotator cuff tears, a group of tendons that attach the muscles of the shoulder to the humerus
• Tumors of the shoulder

In some cases, the cause of a greater tuberosity fracture is unknown.

Greater Tuberosity Fracture More Causes

A greater tuberosity fracture is a type of shoulder injury that can be caused by various factors. Here are some possible causes:

Direct Impact

A direct blow to the shoulder can cause a greater tuberosity fracture, especially if the force is strong enough to break the bone.

Fall on Outstretched Arm

Falling on an outstretched arm can also result in this type of injury, as the impact may cause the humerus to break at its upper part where it meets the scapula.

Overuse or Repetitive Strain

Overuse or repetitive strain on the shoulder, such as participating in overhead activities like throwing, lifting, or playing tennis, can cause the muscles and tendons that attach to the greater tuberosity to pull or tear, leading to a fracture.

Diagnosis of Greater Tuberosity Fracture

Greater tuberosity fracture can be diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests. Here are the methods used to diagnose this type of shoulder injury:

Physical Examination

The doctor will perform a physical examination to assess the range of motion of the shoulder, check for tenderness, swelling, and bruising, and look for visible deformities or abnormalities in the shoulder area.

Medical History Review

The doctor will also ask about the patient's medical history, including any previous injuries to the shoulder, family history of bone fractures, and current medications or chronic conditions that may affect bone health.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the fracture. These tests can show the extent of the bone damage, any associated soft tissue injuries, and whether surgery is necessary.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience symptoms of greater tuberosity fracture, such as sharp pain, swelling, or difficulty moving the arm, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and speed up recovery.

Greater Tuberosity Fracture Treatment

A greater tuberosity fracture is a type of shoulder injury that may require different types of treatment depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient's goals. Here are some common treatment options:

Rest and Pain Management

If the fracture is minor, the doctor may recommend rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage pain and inflammation. The patient will also need to avoid activities that may worsen the condition.

Immobilization with a Sling or Brace

If the fracture is more severe, the shoulder may need to be immobilized with a sling or brace to allow the bone to heal properly. The patient may need to wear the sling or brace for several weeks depending on the severity of the injury.

Physical Therapy

After the immobilization phase, the patient may need to undergo physical therapy to restore range of motion, strength, and flexibility in the shoulder. The therapist may prescribe specific exercises to target the affected muscles and joints.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the fracture, especially if the bone is displaced or not healing properly. The surgeon may use screws, plates, or other devices to stabilize the bone and promote healing.

It is important to follow the doctor's recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

Greater Tuberosity Fracture Non-Surgical Treatment

A greater tuberosity fracture is a type of shoulder injury that can often be treated without surgery. Here are some non-surgical treatments that may help alleviate symptoms:

Rest and Ice

The first step in treating a greater tuberosity fracture is to rest the affected arm as much as possible. Applying ice to the area can help reduce pain and swelling.

Pain Medications

Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Stronger pain medications may be prescribed if necessary.

Immobilization

Immobilizing the shoulder with a sling or brace can help reduce movement and provide support to the affected area as it heals.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help restore range of motion, strength, and flexibility to the shoulder, reducing pain and preventing future injuries. A physical therapist may use various techniques, such as stretching, massage, and exercises, to help the patient recover.

Follow-up Care

It is important to follow the recommended treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

Greater Tuberosity Fracture Surgery