Shoulder Injuries Secondary to Proning: Sequelae of Long COVID Syndrome: A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION

Prolonged proning is widely used in the management of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), most notably during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although brachial plexus injuries are recognized complications, structural shoulder injuries remain rarely reported.

CASE REPORT: We report a case of a patient who developed a glenoid fracture and persistent shoulder dysfunction following prolonged proning for COVID-19-related ARDS. Clinical assessment, radiological findings, and management strategies are detailed.

DISCUSSION: This case highlights unique mechanical and physiological risk factors for structural shoulder injury during proning, including obesity, diabetic neuropathy, prolonged intensive care unit stay, and positioningrelated stress.

CONCLUSION

Structural glenohumeral injuries should be considered in patients presenting persistent shoulder dysfunction after prolonged proning. Awareness and preventive positioning strategies are essential.