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The Importance of Urgent Care for Falls and Shoulder and Elbow Injuries
Falls and traumas affecting the shoulder and elbow are common and can cause serious injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, and ligament or tendon injuries. These conditions can compromise arm functionality and cause pain and disability. Therefore, urgent orthopaedic care is essential to minimize complications, relieve pain, and ensure effective recovery. In this article, we explore the main injuries to these joints, the importance of early diagnosis, and the benefits of being evaluated by a specialized orthopaedic surgeon.
Why are the shoulder and elbow so vulnerable to injury?
The shoulder and elbow play a fundamental role in arm mobility and are subjected to stress daily. The shoulder, the most mobile joint in the human body, is particularly susceptible to dislocations and instability, as well as osteoporosis-related fractures. The elbow, essential for lifting, pushing or holding objects, can easily be injured in the event of a direct impact or fall.
During a fall or accident, these joints can be seriously affected, resulting in injuries that require immediate attention to avoid long-term complications.
Major shoulder and elbow injuries
The most common injuries associated with falls or trauma to these joints include:
1. Fractures
- Shoulder fractures : The most common include the clavicle, proximal humerus and scapula, usually resulting from a fall on the arm or a direct impact.
- Elbow fractures : These include the radius, ulna, or distal humerus, and are often caused by falls that directly support the hand or elbow.
2. Dislocations
- Shoulder : Anterior shoulder dislocation is quite common, occurring when the head of the humerus dislocates from the glenoid cavity. It can happen due to sudden movements or trauma.
- Elbow : Elbow dislocation, although less common, can occur in falls or significant impacts, resulting in pain and loss of mobility.
3. Tendon injuries
- Shoulder : Rotator cuff tears are common, especially in older individuals or after trauma. This group of tendons is essential for the stability and function of the shoulder.
- Elbow : Injuries to the biceps or triceps tendons can occur from overexertion or direct trauma.
4. Ligament injuries
- Injuries to the ligaments that stabilize these joints, such as sprains or tears, can lead to instability and require immediate treatment. The acromioclavicular joint is particularly vulnerable to falls with direct impact on the shoulder. In the elbow, ligament injuries are often associated with dislocations but can occur in isolation and be a cause of long-term disability.
The extent of the tear can be categorized as partial or complete tears, if it involves the entire thickness of the tendon insertion region. They can also be classified according to the number of tendons involved and their size. Although it may be counterintuitive, more extensive tears do not necessarily translate into more severe symptoms. It is believed that the adaptability of the remaining muscles around the shoulder may allow for near-normal function, provided there is time for it to do so, as is the case with tears that develop very slowly over time.
Is urgent care essential?
When a shoulder or elbow injury occurs, time is of the essence in the success of treatment. Here are the main reasons to seek immediate medical attention:
1. Prevention of complications
Untreated or late-diagnosed injuries can lead to serious problems such as early osteoarthritis, deformities or loss of functionality. Prompt treatment minimizes these risks.
2. Pain relief
Pain associated with fractures, dislocations, or tendon injuries can be extremely disabling. An orthopedic surgeon can provide quick solutions, such as manual reduction of fractures and dislocations, immobilization, or administration of appropriate medications.
3. Avoid deformities
Undiagnosed and untreated fractures or dislocations can lead to permanent deformities that compromise the functionality and aesthetics of the arm. Early treatment prevents these problems.
4. Faster recovery
By starting treatment quickly, it is possible to reduce recovery time and resume normal activities more safely and effectively.
Benefits of seeing an orthopedist who specializes in shoulder and elbow
While many doctors can treat orthopedic injuries, a shoulder and elbow orthopedist has the specific training and experience to treat the unique features of these joints. Key advantages include:
1. Accurate diagnosis
Injuries to these joints can be complex. A specialist uses advanced tools, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, to accurately identify the type and severity of the injury.
2. Proper treatment
Each case is unique, and a specialized orthopedist is able to propose the most appropriate treatment, whether conservative (physiotherapy, immobilization) or surgical.
3. Personalized rehabilitation
Recovering from shoulder and elbow injuries requires a careful rehabilitation plan that includes specific exercises to restore strength and mobility to the joint.
4. Lower risk of relapses
With proper treatment and rehabilitation, the risk of new injuries or complications is significantly reduced, allowing the patient to safely return to their routine.
When to seek medical help?
Not all falls or injuries require emergency care. However, you should seek out a specialist orthopedist if:
- The pain is intense and persistent.
- There is visible deformity in the joint or arm.
- Notice significant swelling or bruising.
- Feeling difficulty or inability to move your arm.
- Present continuous numbness or tingling.
During surgery, damaged tendons are identified, prepared, and then reattached to their origin in the bone, usually using small suture-supported implants called anchors. In some cases, additional procedures may be needed, such as releasing scar tissue or repairing other structures in the shoulder.
Why choose Dr. Bernardo Nunes to treat shoulder and elbow injuries?
Dr. Bernardo Nunes is a highly qualified orthopedic surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of shoulder and elbow injuries. With a personalized approach and the use of cutting-edge technology, he offers excellent service, ensuring the best results for each patient. From diagnosis to rehabilitation, the focus is always on full recovery and improving quality of life.
Shoulder and elbow injuries caused by falls or trauma can have a significant impact on your functionality and quality of life. Seeking urgent orthopedic care from a specialist is essential to minimize complications, relieve pain, and ensure a full recovery.
If you have suffered an injury or are experiencing pain in your shoulder or elbow, don’t delay. Contact Dr. Bernardo Nunes’ clinic and schedule your appointment. Take care of your joint health with someone who understands and values what really matters: your well-being.
