Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with acute left shoulder pain following high-energy trauma. Reports localized tenderness over the scapular region, exacerbated by shoulder girdle movement and deep inspiration. Denies neurological deficits or vascular compromise in the left upper extremity.
Clinical Examination Findings
Inspection reveals ecchymosis and soft tissue swelling over the left scapular region. Palpation demonstrates point tenderness along the scapular body/spine. Range of motion is severely limited due to pain. Neurovascular status of the left upper extremity is intact with palpable distal pulses and normal capillary refill.
Treatment Protocol
Immobilization with a shoulder immobilizer or sling for comfort. Initiation of analgesia (NSAIDs/acetaminophen). Early pendulum exercises as tolerated to prevent adhesive capsulitis. Orthopedic follow-up for repeat imaging and assessment for surgical fixation if fracture displacement or articular involvement is significant.