PROXIMAL HUMERUS FRACTURE

Treatment for a proximal humerus fracture, which occurs in the upper part of the arm bone near the shoulder joint, depends on several factors, including the severity of the fracture, degree of displacement, patient’s age and overall health, and presence of associated injuries. 

Immobilization: Nondisplaced or minimally displaced fractures may be treated conservatively with immobilization in a sling, splint, or brace to support the arm and shoulder during healing.

Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications may be recommended to manage pain and discomfort associated with the fracture.

Physical Therapy: Once the acute pain and swelling subside, physical therapy may be initiated to restore range of motion, strength, and function to the shoulder joint. Physical therapists can provide exercises and modalities to help with recovery.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Severe fractures with significant displacement, multiple fragments, or involvement of the joint surface may require surgery. During an ORIF procedure, the bone fragments are repositioned (reduced) into their normal alignment and held together with plates, screws, or pins to stabilize the fracture.

Hemiarthroplasty or Total Shoulder Replacement: In cases of severe fracture involving damage to the shoulder joint, particularly in older adults with poor bone quality, a shoulder replacement surgery may be performed. This involves replacing the damaged parts of the shoulder joint with prosthetic components to restore function and reduce pain.

Rehabilitation: Regardless of the treatment approach, rehabilitation is a crucial component of recovery from a proximal humerus fracture. Physical therapy helps to improve shoulder mobility, strength, and function, reducing the risk of stiffness and complications.

Exercises may focus on range of motion, strengthening of the shoulder and arm muscles, and functional activities to help regain independence in daily tasks.

Follow-Up Care:

Regular follow-up appointments with our medical team are essential to monitoring healing progress and adjusting the treatment plan as needed.

X-rays or other imaging studies may be repeated to evaluate bone healing and alignment.

Activity Modification:

During the recovery period, it is important to avoid activities that may put excessive stress on the healing bone, such as heavy lifting or overhead movements.

Our physical therapists should guide gradual return to activities and sports to prevent re-injury.