Humerus Fracture

A humerus fracture can disrupt your daily life, causing pain, limited mobility, and frustration. This article explains the types, causes, symptoms, and treatment options for humerus fractures, helping you understand what to expect during recovery.

If you’re facing a broken bone in your upper arm, the team at Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville is here to help. Contact our office in Zanesville, Ohio, today to schedule a consultation!

What is a Humerus Fracture?

A humerus fracture refers to a broken bone in the upper arm. The humerus bone is divided into three sections:

Proximal humerus: Near the shoulder joint.
Mid-shaft: The central part of the bone.
Distal humerus: Near the elbow joint.

When a fracture occurs, it can involve one or more parts of the bone. These injuries range in severity and require personalized treatment.

Types of Humerus Fractures

Humerus fractures are classified into three main types based on their location:

Proximal humerus fractures: Injuries near the shoulder, known as a proximal humerus fracture, are often caused by falls or osteoporosis. These fractures may require advanced imaging to determine the best treatment plan.
Mid-shaft fractures: These occur along the central portion of the upper arm bone.
Distal humerus fractures: Found near the elbow, these injuries often result from high-impact trauma, like a fall or car accident.

What Causes a Humerus Fracture?

People of all ages can experience humerus fractures, but older adults and athletes are particularly susceptible to falls or trauma. Common causes of humerus fractures include:

What Are the Symptoms of a Humerus Fracture?

Symptoms of a fractured humerus often include:

How is a Humerus Fracture Diagnosed?

To diagnose a humerus fracture, a doctor will:

Examine the arm: They will assess pain, swelling, and deformity.
Take imaging tests: X-rays are commonly used to identify the location and severity of the bone break. In some cases, a CT scan may be needed to assess complex proximal humerus fractures or distal humerus fractures.

Orthopaedic specialists ensure an accurate diagnosis, which is critical for creating an effective treatment plan.

What is the Treatment for a Humerus Fracture?

Treatment for a fractured humerus depends on the type and severity of the break

Non-Surgical Options

Most humerus fractures heal with non-surgical treatment. This may include the following:

Immobilization using slings or casts.
Rest
Ice to reduce swelling
Physical therapy to help restore range of motion.

Surgical Options

Severe breaks, like displaced proximal humerus fractures or complex distal humerus fractures, may require surgery to realign and stabilize the bone using plates, screws, or rods.

The team at Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville specializes in both non-surgical and surgical care, ensuring you receive the best treatment possible.

Possible Complications

Some complications may arise either after the break or after surgery to fix a broken bone. Possible complications include the following:

Nerve damage: Nerves can be overstretched during surgery.
Infection: This is a rare risk with surgical treatment. It can also occur when the bone breaks the skin.
Joint stiffness: Physical therapy can help reduce this risk.
Delayed healing or nonunion: The bone may heal slowly or fail to heal without surgical intervention. Bones may also not heal properly if post-surgical restrictions are not followed.

Prompt, expert care minimizes these risks and promotes a smooth recovery.

Recovery

With proper care, most broken bones, including humerus fractures, heal within a few months. Recovery may include:

Immobilization: The arm is often kept in a sling or brace for weeks.
Physical therapy: To regain strength and improve range of motion.
Gradual return to activity: Your doctor will guide you on safely resuming daily tasks.

Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville provides personalized recovery plans, helping patients return to their normal routines as quickly as possible.

Expert Care for Humerus Fractures in Zanesville

If you’ve experienced a humerus fracture, trust the experienced team at Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville. We offer advanced care for fractures of the upper arm bone, elbow, and shoulder. From diagnosis to recovery, our specialists are with you every step of the way. Contact our office in Zanesville, OH, today to start your journey to healing!

Medically reviewed by Benjamin R. Pulley, MD, FAAOS

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