SHOULDER FRACTURES
Greater Tuberosity
Fracture
A greater tuberosity fracture is a break in the part of the upper arm bone where the rotator cuff tendons attach. Even small amounts of displacement can affect shoulder motion and rotator cuff mechanics, making careful evaluation important.
Rotator Cuff Attachment
Fall or Dislocation
Fragment Position
Restore Cuff Mechanics
What Is A Greater Tuberosity Fracture?
The greater tuberosity is the bony prominence where several rotator cuff tendons attach to the humerus. When this area fractures, the attached rotator cuff can pull the fragment out of position.
Because the rotator cuff depends on this attachment site, treatment decisions are based not only on whether the bone will heal, but also on whether the shoulder will function normally after healing.
Dr. Streit's Philosophy
Greater tuberosity fractures are small fractures with potentially large functional consequences. The question is not simply whether the bone will unite. The question is whether it will heal in a position that allows the rotator cuff to work properly.
Common Symptoms
Shoulder Pain
Pain occurs after a fall, dislocation, or direct trauma.
Difficulty Lifting The Arm
Elevation and rotation may be painful or weak.
Bruising
Bruising may extend down the upper arm.
Weakness
Rotator cuff mechanics may be affected by the fracture.
Stiffness
Motion often becomes limited after injury.
Pain With Rotation
External rotation may be especially uncomfortable.
How Is It Diagnosed?
X-rays usually identify the fracture. CT scans may help define displacement and fragment position. MRI may be considered if there is concern for associated rotator cuff injury, labral injury, or instability.
X-rays
Initial imaging to identify the fracture.
CT Scan
Helpful when surgical decision-making depends on exact displacement.
MRI
Used selectively when associated soft tissue injury is suspected.
Treatment Options
Sling
Nondisplaced fractures often heal well with immobilization.
Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation restores motion and rotator cuff strength after healing begins.
Close Follow-Up
Repeat X-rays may be needed to ensure the fragment does not move.
Surgical Fixation
Displaced fragments may need repair to restore rotator cuff mechanics.
Arthroscopic Or Open Repair
The technique depends on fracture pattern, displacement, and associated injuries.
Individualized Plan
Treatment depends on displacement, activity level, bone quality, and goals.
What I Tell My Patients
"A greater tuberosity fracture is important because it is where the rotator cuff attaches. If it heals in the wrong position, the shoulder may remain weak or painful. That is why careful evaluation and follow-up matter."
Related Resources
Diagnosed With A Greater Tuberosity Fracture?
A shoulder-specific evaluation can determine whether your fracture is likely to heal well without surgery or whether fixation offers the best chance to restore rotator cuff function.
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