Axelhumerusskada

Axelhumerusskada is a term used in Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish medical language that translates roughly as "shoulder-humerus injury." It is not a single formal diagnosis, but a general descriptor for injuries affecting the shoulder region and the upper part of the upper arm.

Anatomy and scope: The term covers injuries to the shoulder girdle and proximal humerus, including proximal humerus fractures, glenohumeral dislocations, acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries, rotator cuff tears, and injuries to the biceps tendon. It therefore encompasses both bone and soft tissue injuries around the shoulder.

Causes and symptoms: Most axelhumerusskader result from acute trauma such as falls, direct blows, or sports accidents. Symptoms typically include shoulder pain, impaired mobility, swelling, and sometimes deformity in dislocations or visible fracture fragments. The exact presentation depends on the specific injury involved.

Diagnosis: Evaluation combines patient history and physical examination with imaging. X-rays are first-line; CT may be used to characterize fractures; MRI or ultrasound may assess soft tissue structures such as the rotator cuff and labrum.

Treatment: Management depends on injury type and severity. Nonoperative care includes rest, immobilization, pain control, and physical therapy. Operative options include surgical fixation for displaced fractures, arthroscopic or open repair for rotator cuff or labral injuries, and reduction or stabilization for dislocations or AC injuries. Decision-making factors include bone quality, age, activity level, and the presence of concomitant injuries.

Prognosis and rehabilitation: Recovery is variable. Most patients regain function with appropriate treatment, though stiffness, persistent pain, or reduced strength may occur, especially after complex fractures or in older individuals. Rehabilitation usually involves staged physical therapy.

Etymology and usage: The term combines axel (shoulder) and humerus (the upper arm bone) and is used mainly in Nordic languages to describe injuries at or near the shoulder joint; it is not limited to a single diagnosis.