Proximal Humerus Fracture

Symptoms of a proximal humerus fracture, which occurs in the upper part of the arm bone near the shoulder joint, can vary depending on the severity of the fracture. 

Pain: is usually the most noticeable symptom of a proximal humerus fracture. The pain may be severe and sharp, particularly with movement of the shoulder or arm.

Swelling: around the shoulder area is common following a proximal humerus fracture. The affected area may appear swollen and feel tender to the touch.

Bruising: or discoloration of the skin around the shoulder may occur due to bleeding beneath the skin as a result of the fracture.

Difficulty Moving the Shoulder: The shoulder’s ability may be limited or restricted due to pain and swelling. Movements such as lifting the arm or reaching overhead may be particularly challenging.

Visible Deformity: In severe cases of proximal humerus fracture, there may be a visible deformity or abnormal shape of the shoulder joint. This can occur if the bone fragments are displaced or if there is significant damage to the surrounding tissues.

Tenderness: The area around the shoulder may be tender to the touch. Palpating or pressing on the shoulder may elicit pain.

Numbness or Tingling: If nerves in the shoulder area are affected by the fracture, numbness or tingling sensations may occur in the arm or hand. This can occur if the fracture causes compression or damage to nearby nerves.

Weakness: Weakness in the shoulder and arm muscles may occur due to pain and immobility. This weakness can affect the ability to perform everyday activities that require arm use.

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.