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!
A humerus fracture refers to a broken bone in the upper arm. The humerus bone is divided into three sections:
When a fracture occurs, it can involve one or more parts of the bone. These injuries range in severity and require personalized treatment.
Humerus fractures are classified into three main types based on their location:
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:
Symptoms of a fractured humerus often include:
To diagnose a humerus fracture, a doctor will:
Orthopaedic specialists ensure an accurate diagnosis, which is critical for creating an effective treatment plan.
Treatment for a fractured humerus depends on the type and severity of the break
Most humerus fractures heal with non-surgical treatment. This may include the following:
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.
Some complications may arise either after the break or after surgery to fix a broken bone. Possible complications include the following:
Prompt, expert care minimizes these risks and promotes a smooth recovery.
With proper care, most broken bones, including humerus fractures, heal within a few months. Recovery may include:
Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville provides personalized recovery plans, helping patients return to their normal routines as quickly as possible.
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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A Humerus Fracture is a break in the long bone of the upper arm. The humerus plays a crucial role in shoulder and elbow movement, so a fracture can significantly limit daily activities such as lifting, reaching, or even simple arm motions.
Fractures are classified by location. A Proximal Humerus Fracture occurs near the shoulder joint and is especially common in older adults after a fall. Mid-shaft fractures affect the middle portion of the bone and may occur from direct trauma. A Distal Humerus Fracture occurs near the elbow and is often associated with high-impact injuries such as motor vehicle accidents.
Most people experience severe pain in the upper arm immediately after the injury. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common, and movement of the shoulder or elbow may be very painful or limited. In more severe cases, there may be visible deformity or a grinding sensation when attempting to move the arm.
Treatment depends on the severity and alignment of the fracture. Many fractures can heal with non-surgical care, including immobilization in a sling or brace, rest, ice, and gradual physical therapy to restore strength and range of motion. If the bone fragments are significantly displaced or the fracture is complex, surgery may be required to secure the bone with plates, screws, or rods to ensure proper healing.
Most humerus fractures heal within approximately eight to twelve weeks, though full recovery of strength and flexibility can take several months. Physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process and helps prevent stiffness and long-term mobility issues.
While most people recover well, complications can occur. These may include nerve injury, infection after surgery, joint stiffness, or delayed bone healing. Early evaluation and following your prescribed treatment and rehabilitation plan significantly reduce the risk of long-term problems.
