Abstract
Scapular fractures are rare in general and therefore rare in sports. Scapular fractures are injuries that require high-energy force and are often seen in association with other injuries. The most common mechanism of injury is blunt trauma to the superior and lateral shoulder. Typical presentation is the arm held in adduction with localized tenderness and resistance by the patient to any movement. The diagnosis is ultimately made radiographically. Classification of these injuries is helpful in determining if management should be surgical or non-surgical, though indications for surgery are debated and evolving. In general, minimally displaced fractures can be managed non-surgically. Non-surgical management includes ice, pain control, and a sling for comfort. Range of motion exercises should be started as soon as pain permits. Follow-up radiographs are obtained in the first 3 weeks to demonstrate evidence of healing, after which resistance exercises are initiated. Regular non-contact activity can resume after union occurs at about 6–8 weeks post-injury.
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Spadafore, S.M., Wolcott, M., Selenke, D. (2020). Scapula. In: Khodaee, M., Waterbrook, A., Gammons, M. (eds) Sports-related Fractures, Dislocations and Trauma. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-36790-9_13
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-36790-9_13
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