A Grade 2 fracture of the shoulder is when there is tearing of the joint covering, also known as the capsule, and stretching of the ligaments that connect the shoulder blade (scapula) and collarbone (clavicle). It is not as severe as a Grade 3 fracture, which involves a complete tear of the ligaments.
When you have a Grade 2 fracture, you may experience pain and discomfort in your shoulder. The tearing of the joint covering can cause inflammation and swelling, making it difficult to move your shoulder freely. You may also notice a small bump over the top of your shoulder at the AC joint, which is a permanent consequence of this type of injury.
I remember when I had a Grade 2 fracture in my shoulder. It happened during a basketball game when I fell awkwardly on my shoulder after going for a rebound. The pain was intense, and I couldn’t move my arm without feeling a sharp, shooting sensation.
After seeking medical attention, I learned that I had torn the capsule of my shoulder joint and stretched the ligaments connecting my scapula and clavicle. The doctor explained that this was a Grade 2 fracture, and although it wasn’t as severe as a Grade 3, it would still require treatment and rehabilitation.
Treatment for a Grade 2 fracture typically involves rest, ice, and the use of pain medication to manage the discomfort. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help regain strength and mobility in the shoulder. In some cases, a sling or brace may be used to immobilize the shoulder and promote healing.
It took several weeks of dedicated rehabilitation for my shoulder to start feeling better. The physical therapist guided me through exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve my range of motion. It was a slow process, but gradually, I regained full use of my shoulder.
One thing to keep in mind is that even though the pain and discomfort may improve over time, the small bump over the AC joint is usually permanent. This is a visible reminder of the Grade 2 fracture and serves as a reminder to take care of the shoulder to prevent further injuries.
A Grade 2 fracture of the shoulder involves tearing of the joint covering and stretching of ligaments connecting the scapula and clavicle. It can cause pain, inflammation, and a small bump over the top of the shoulder. Treatment includes rest, ice, pain medication, and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. While the discomfort may improve, the bump is usually permanent.