Sprengel deformity is a rare condition where one shoulder blade sits higher on the back than the other, often due to improper development before birth. This can lead to limited shoulder movement and cosmetic concerns. While rare, it is significant as it can cause discomfort and affect a person's self-esteem. Sprengel deformity affects about 1 in every 100,000 births, making it uncommon but important to diagnose and manage early for better outcomes. Early intervention and tailored treatments can help improve shoulder function and appearance.
Sprengel Deformity, a rare congenital condition affecting shoulder blade development, has several contributing factors:
Recognizing the symptoms of Sprengel Deformity early on is crucial for improving outcomes. This congenital condition affects the shoulder blade's development, leading to various signs that should prompt evaluation:
Diagnosing Sprengel Deformity accurately is crucial for determining the most effective treatment plan. During the diagnostic process, healthcare providers typically perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. The diagnostic methods for Sprengel Deformity may include:
Sprengel Deformity treatment approaches vary based on individual cases, highlighting the importance of personalized care.
Sprengel Deformity is a rare congenital condition where one shoulder blade is higher than the other. While it may not always be preventable, certain lifestyle changes and proactive measures can help manage its symptoms:
If you’ve been having any symptoms or worries about Sprengel Deformity, please reach out to our doctors. They will listen to your concerns, answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.
Sprengel Deformity is a congenital condition where one shoulder blade (scapula) is abnormally positioned higher than the other due to improper development before birth.
The exact cause is unknown, but it results from the failure of the scapula to descend properly during fetal development, often associated with other skeletal abnormalities.
Symptoms include an elevated shoulder blade, limited shoulder movement, asymmetry in the shoulders, and sometimes muscle weakness or a visible lump on the back.
It is diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess scapular position and associated abnormalities.
Mild cases may be managed with physical therapy to improve shoulder mobility and strength, but severe cases often require surgery for better function and appearance.
The main surgical procedure is the Woodward or Green procedure, which repositions the scapula to a more normal location and improves shoulder movement.
Surgery is usually performed between ages 3 and 8 when the bones and muscles are still developing, allowing for better outcomes in mobility and appearance.
Yes, it is often linked with Klippel-Feil syndrome, rib anomalies, scoliosis, and other musculoskeletal abnormalities.
With early treatment, most children experience improved shoulder function and appearance, though some limitations in movement may persist.
In mild cases, daily activities are not significantly affected. However, in severe cases, limited shoulder movement may impact sports or overhead tasks.