[Shoulder injury in general practice]

Injuries to the shoulder and shoulder-girdle represent a demanding diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The complex and minimally constrained anatomic construction of the joints is critical. Although a large majority of the injuries are relatively trivial it is essential to recognize critical lesions that deserve intensive investigation and appropriate treatment. In view of the severity of the consequences of particular injury patterns this article focuses on fractures of the proximal humerus, gleno-humeral dislocations and on acute ruptures of the rotator cuff. In particular, attention will be drawn on fractures with avascular head fragment, primarily undisplaced fractures of the anatomic neck, unrecognized posterior dislocation and on under diagnosed acute ruptures of the rotator cuff. The key issue for a secure diagnosis are a precise physical examination and an adequate conventional radiologic investigation. Both aspects are discussed with practically relevant suggestions.