Fractured Humerus

The humerus is a long bone in the upper arm that runs from the shoulder to the elbow. A fractured humerus is when part of the bone breaks. A fracture of the humeral shaft (the middle part of the bone) involves damage to the humerus but may also affect the elbow and shoulder joints and the soft tissue around the fracture site. This might also include injury to nerves, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels.

What causes a fracture to the humerus?

Fractures to the humeral shaft are most commonly caused by direct stress such as a blow to the arm or a fall onto an outstretched arm. The risk of a fracture, particularly to the shaft of the humerus may be increased during contact sport. Further risk factors include history of joint or bone disease, particularly osteoporosis.

It should be noted that fractures can happen for no obvious reason at all. Therefore it is very important in all cases that your Doctor is fully aware of your mechanism of injury so that he/she can decide whether further investigations are needed.

What are the symptoms/effects of a fracture to the humerus?

Symptoms of a fracture to the humerus may include one or more of following:

Pain in the fracture region, especially when moving the shoulder or elbow
Restricted elbow and shoulder movements
Swelling around the fracture sight
You may rarely experience weakness of the hand and abnormal sensation over the back of the hand if the radial nerve is damaged.

Physiotherapy treatment for a fractured humerus

Whilst physiotherapy treatment is strongly advised following this type of injury, it is very important to check with your doctor that it is safe for you to commence. This is because your arm will usually be immobilised in a sling for some time after injury.

Our specialist physiotherapists will help to promote bone realignment, enhancement of the healing process and hence maximal function in the short and longer term.

Physiotherapy treatment at Cleethorpes Physio Clinic may include: