Humerus fractures account for between 4% and 6% of bone fractures in adults. They can occur at any age, although they are linked to osteoporosis, so they are especially common in women over 60 years of age. Discover the solution and treatment for humerus fractures in this post.
What is a humerus fracture?
The humerus is the longest bone in the arm; It joins the shoulder joint to the elbow joint. Various muscles are inserted into it, including the biceps brachii, the triceps or the deltoid. Fracture of the humerus is very common, especially among young and elderly adults.
Classification of humerus fractures
Humerus fractures are classified according to the area of the bone affected. Thus, we can find:
Proximal humerus fractures
The proximal area of the humerus is made up of the head of the bone that connects to the shoulder joint. Among humerus fractures, they are the most common, in a 75%.
This type of fracture is three times more common in women over 70 years of age, as it is usually related to osteoporosis. Although it is not uncommon for it to occur in young people, in this case caused by car accidents or high-impact sports.
Fractures of the humeral shaft
The diaphysis is the long segment of the bone. These types of fractures occur mostly in adults who suffer trauma to the arm. It is common for damage to occur, in turn, to the radial nerve, involved in the extension of the elbow, wrist and fingers.
Distal humerus fractures
The distal area of the humerus is closest to the elbow. Normally, these types of fractures occur in children between 3 and 11 years old, after suffering a fall.
Most common causes of humerus fracture
The most common causes of humerus fractures are trauma. In many cases, osteoporosis is involved, which can occur due to simple falls while standing.
In the young population, the majority of shoulder injuries occur in accidents or are sports injuries. They can also occur humerus fractures due to seizures or electrocutions.
Risk factors when suffering from humerus fractures
The risk factors for humerus fractures are directly related to their causes, that is, trauma.
In young people, Practicing risky activities or impact sports increases the risk of suffering humerus fractures. These activities include: skiing, snowboarding, basketball, wrestling, hockey or sports related to motorsports.
In people over 70 years of age, Osteoporosis is the greatest risk factor for suffering a humerus fracture. In this case, due to the greater fragility of the bones, a simple foot fall could cause this injury.
Symptoms of humeral fracture
A fracture of the humerus causes pain that worsens when trying to move the arm, inflammation of the shoulder, inability to move the arm or elbow normally, crepitus, bone hematoma (a Hennequin hematoma may also appear after 48 hours, below the deltoid) and deformity of the arm or wrist.
It is essential to see a medical specialist as soon as possible, as early diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid later complications, for example, to the surrounding nerves.
When is surgery recommended for a humerus fracture?
Humerus surgery is recommended when the broken bone fragments are displaced, there are multiple fractures, or nerve and blood vessel damage is present. Surgical intervention is also necessary when the fracture does not heal properly with conservative treatment or when it is an open fracture.
The most common surgical procedures involve the placement of plates, screws, or intramedullary nails to stabilize the bone and ensure proper healing. In complex cases, such as displaced humeral head fractures, arthroscopy or partial shoulder replacement may be necessary.
Thanks to advances in minimally invasive surgery, recovery time is shorter and postoperative pain is significantly reduced. This type of surgery allows for a faster return to daily life and effective rehabilitation.
Diagnosis and treatment of a humerus fracture
The medical test to diagnose a humerus fracture is an x-ray. although, sometimes, CT will also be used to obtain more detailed information about the injury.
Depending on its severity, treatment may include:
- In cases of a displaced fracture of the humerus, the different parts will have to be placed in their natural position; surgery may be required for this procedure.
- On a large number of occasions, The humerus fracture will be solved with immobilization using a sling.
- Analgesics and anti-inflammatories in order to reduce pain.
- Shoulder mobility rehabilitation. It should begin while wearing the sling, in order to reduce arm stiffness. Once removed, the focus will be on regaining joint mobility and muscle strength.
- In some cases, shoulder surgery will be necessary. Osteosynthesis plates, screws or nails can be used in the treatment of fractures. If there is a displaced humeral head fracture, surgery may be performed. shoulder arthroscopy for humerus fracture, a minimally invasive surgery that has a quick recovery.
The ideal is to go to shoulder specialist traumatologists to get the best results. At Elgeadi Traumatology we have the best traumatologists and cutting-edge technology. Furthermore, we are the greatest experts in minimally invasive surgery in Madrid, such as shoulder arthroscopy.
How long does it take for a humerus fracture to heal?
Recovery from a humerus fracture varies depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment administered. In simple fractures without displacement, the recovery process is usually completed within six to eight weeks with immobilization in a sling. In severe cases, where the bone is fractured into multiple fragments or there is nerve damage, the recovery period can be considerably longer.
In cases requiring surgery, full recovery can take between three and six months, depending on the type of procedure performed and the patient's age. During this stage, pain medication is typically combined with physical therapy to maintain muscle strength and prevent joint stiffness.
Several factors, such as bone density, pre-existing conditions, and lifestyle habits like smoking or lack of exercise, directly influence the healing rate. Therefore, medical follow-up and adherence to the rehabilitation plan are essential for a full and safe recovery.
Tips for sleeping with a humerus fracture
When it comes to resting, the sleeping position with a humerus fracture is essential.
Ideally, the arm should be placed above the heart, to avoid blood accumulation in the injured area.
The best sleeping position is on your back or, failing that, on your side on your healthy arm. Pillows or cushions may be used for humerus fractures to support and cushion the immobilized arm.
Rehabilitation and exercises to regain arm mobility
Rehabilitation is crucial in the recovery from a humerus fracture. From the first few weeks, and even with the sling in place, it's possible to perform gentle movements of the fingers, wrist, and elbow to maintain circulation and prevent stiffness.
Once the immobilization is removed, the physiotherapist adds progressive mobility exercises, aiming to increase the shoulder's range of motion and strengthen the muscles. Exercises with resistance bands, balls, or light weights help reactivate the arm muscles without straining the joint. In most cases, with consistent and organized work, it is possible to recover almost 100% of mobility in a few weeks.
Factors that slow down recovery after a humerus fracture.
There are some factors that can slow the recovery of a humerus fracture. Among them, the patient's cooperation, his age (after 45 years of age, rehabilitation will be more complicated), obesity and also the delay in finding an adequate diagnosis.
There are a wide variety of circumstances that affect the severity and treatment of a humerus fracture. It will be the specialist traumatologist who will be in charge of finding an accurate diagnosis in the shortest possible time and restoring shoulder mobilization.
At Elgeadi traumatology we have the most established specialists and the latest technology to ensure that the recovery from a humerus fracture is as quick as possible. If you need a trustworthy medical team, do not hesitate and come to our trauma clinic in Madrid.
67 thoughts on “Tipos y tratamientos para las fracturas de húmero”
I need help, I had a car accident with my mother and none of the traumatologists I have seen have been able to give a diagnosis and the pain is exasperating.
Good afternoon, Marielys.
We are very sorry for what happened. You can request an appointment with our specialist traumatologists using the link provided.
All the best.
I suffered a distal humerus fracture more than 3 weeks ago and 2 weeks ago I had surgery with a plate and screws. Is it normal that I can't flex my elbow?
Hello Angel,
This is normal at first. Immobilization, swelling, and surgical trauma can temporarily limit your range of motion. However, it is important to follow your doctor and physical therapist's instructions to safely begin rehabilitation. If your lack of movement persists or worsens, consult your doctor to ensure that your recovery process is on track.
Greetings
I had an accident 15 years ago, I fractured the humeral shaft, I have a plate and 5 screws. I am in constant pain from not being able to move, even if I walk. The movement when I walk hurts my arm.
Hello Rutelly,
We are very sorry to hear about the pain and difficulties you are experiencing. It is possible that the pain you are experiencing when walking, even after all this time, is a result of the original injury and the fixation devices (plate and screws) that were placed at the time.
We would recommend that you consult with an orthopedic specialist to evaluate your situation. A thorough examination could help determine whether the pain is caused by the implants, by any alteration in arm mobility, or by another factor related to the initial injury. In addition, appropriate treatment, which may include physical therapy or possible adjustments in the medical approach, could alleviate some of the symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Greetings.
Hello, good afternoon, I suffered a fall and fractured my humerus, how do I send you plate photos?
Hello José Vicente,
Thank you very much for your comment on the blog. To contact our trauma specialists, you can email us at [email protected] or fill out our contact form at the following address: https://elgeaditraumatologia.com/contacto/
All the best.
Hello, I had a humerus fracture and after the operation, I can't move my hand, my whole hand goes down.
Hi Javier,
We would have to see your case in consultation to be able to tell you something. You can contact us at 91 005 39 00.
Greetings
They pinched a nerve
Good morning
I would like to know if it is advisable for humerus fractures in very elderly people to massage with anti-inflammatory creams or apply cold to help reduce inflammation. Thank you
All the best
Good afternoon Charity,
Thank you very much for your comment. The treatment will depend on the evolution of the pathology, so it is best to consult with a traumatology specialist to assess its condition and determine the treatment that best suits the need. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact our expert traumatologists at the following link: https://elgeaditraumatologia.com/contacto/
All the best.
Hello. Caridad, I also have an elderly person. With fracture. De humero and I have the same unknown. That. Yours. Because of my mother's age. We decided not to operate but I don't know if it's appropriate for him to be 86 years old. Taking advantage. What do you They said. To you? The doctors do put it on suddenly. Ice and creams but I ask you. Don't stop moving. Your joints in your hand and forearm
Please I can mark you. I have some. Doubts and can you help me regarding. Your experience
Or send me. A message. Please
Please I can mark you. I have some. Doubts and can you help me regarding. Your experience
Or send me. A message. Please 9831025533
Hello, 1 year ago I fractured my humerus in which they put a rod with 2 nails,
After so much time I get punctures in my spine and hand and I get cervical pain depending on what movements I can't do and in the same humerus I also get punctures.
My question is, will the rod have to be removed?
Hi Lorena,
In your case, we cannot give you a diagnosis without knowing the case well in consultation. You can make an appointment with our expert traumatologists at the following link: https://elgeaditraumatologia.com/cita-privada/
All the best.
Hello, good afternoon, I fractured my upper humerus... and I didn't have surgery. They put a cast on me, not very well, and I'm three months old now and I have pain in my humerus and I can't move about 40 percent, and I've gone to the traumatologist.
Hello, good morning José Vicente,
We appreciate you commenting on the blog. Good morning Yulibel,
A prior evaluation and a thorough review of your medical history would be necessary. Once your case has been studied individually, our professionals will offer you the most appropriate treatment according to your pathology. Do not hesitate to make an appointment with our expert traumatologists at the following link: https://elgeaditraumatologia.com/cita-privada/
All the best.
Good evening, I fractured my humerus bone 4 days ago, where can I send the plate so they can give me a diagnosis if I should have surgery?
Good morning Gabriel,
Thank you for contacting our team.
Can fill out this form, attaching the necessary documents.
Greetings.
Good afternoon, 15 days ago I fractured my humerus with displacement. I decided not to have surgery and I currently have an immobilizer... I would like to know if this fracture can have consequences? And what would they be? Thank you.
Hello Oneida, any poorly healed fracture can leave consequences, the behavior of the bone and also the body of each person is very important. It is best to follow up with a trusted professional to explore it in detail. A hug.
Hello, good morning, I have a problem. 8 months ago I had surgery on a plate that was replaced after a humerus surgery and now 8 months later I had a ball on top of the plate and I have a lot of tracheal pain in my hand and my hand is very swollen. What should I do? do
Hello Viviana, the first thing to do is go to the doctor who operated on you so that he can examine you physically and draw conclusions, okay? A hug.
Do you work with Mafre insurance? Thank you.
Hello Raquel, contact us through the form on the website or by phone and we will send you all the information. A hug!
I had surgery more than 2 years ago for a fracture of the humeral shaft where there was an injury to the radial nerve. Currently, I still feel that my elbow is heavy and tingling from the elbow to the hand. According to the results of the electromyography, my injury is moderate. . It is normal to continue like this and there is a possibility of recovery. Thank you!!
Hello Milena, thank you very much for your comment,
Yes it is possible, it is normal for the area to recover progressively and sometimes it is a somewhat long process, so you have to be patient.
Neuromodulation may be a good therapeutic option in cases similar to yours.
All the best
Good morning, doctor, I have a fracture of the humerus bone. They put a screw in my arm. I can't lower it all the way down because where the elbow is. With the therapies they perform, the arm can reach its normal position.
Thank you
Hi Carlos,
We cannot give you an answer without having full knowledge of your case. The best thing would be to see you in consultation, see your tests and develop a rehabilitation plan in a particular way. You can make an appointment by calling +34 910 053 900.
Greetings
Hello, good morning, three days ago I fractured a part of my humerus as explained to me... due to a very strong blow I gave myself... they gave me a sling and treatment but the truth is that I don't see stars... no. .but the entire entire universe and I wonder wouldn't it be better to immobilize the area with a plaster to avoid involuntary movements...??
Thank you so much.
All the best.
Hello Montse,
We would have to see the imaging tests to tell you something about that.
Can contact us to send us your studies or contact us for a consultation.
Greetings
Go for medical treatment. Anti pain
Hello, about two months ago I fell, I have a displaced humerus fracture. I went to the orthopedic surgeon and he put a cast on me but he put it on my elbow for a month and the fracture was in the humerus. Now they tell me that I have to have surgery and I don't want to have surgery. I'm 64 years old. Rheumatology patient with osteoporosis who underwent spine surgery twice with plates and screws. When I was having surgery, my bones were loosening due to osteoporosis. My bones were like cookies, so I don't want to have surgery. What would be the consequences if I didn't have surgery?
Hello Maria Elena,
It would be necessary to carry out an in-depth evaluation if it is worth performing the surgery, but yes, it is best to do it with all the information about the injury, the images and full knowledge of your medical history.
Greetings.
Hello, 10 days ago I had humerus surgery, I can't move my hand and 2 days ago my thumb and index finger became very numb and I felt like burning, that's normal and yes, how long does this last?
Hello Miriam,
The causes should be reviewed to see if any particular treatment is required. Without tests we cannot know how long the discomfort you have will last.
Greetings
To me there are 4 sets that are going to operate and it happens like yours. The first setmanes do not passava i ara si. I have commented that it is the inflammation that has reduced me. Ho fatal pass. I notice punxades and cream, and no force.
The same thing happened to me... I went bankrupt on December 17 of last year, they had surgery and my hand fell off... supposedly the radial nerve is what gives movement to the hand and therefore that nerve is somewhat affected and with a lot of physiotherapy it He will work to regain movement and strength in his arm and hand. It is frustrating but good.
I had a humerus fracture 2 and a half months ago. I'm 82 years old and they only put me in a sling. They sent me therapies but the pain is too strong. What can I do?
Good morning Hope,
It is essential that you speak with your specialist to evaluate a treatment that will relieve your pain to the greatest extent possible.
In order to help you, we would need to see your imaging tests and know your complete medical history.
Greetings.
Good afternoon! I fractured my humerus and had surgery today. I'm 17 years old but the wound is hurting a lot and I feel hot. It's still swollen. What do you recommend please?
Hello Nilka,
The wound should be checked to see that it has not become infected. Since if you feel pain and have inflammation and heat in the area it is a possibility.
Greetings.
Hello, I injured my humerus (I slipped and fell on my arm), I went to the emergency room and a traumatologist treated me, I am currently with my right arm in a cast with a valve.
The following week I developed two large blisters and they had to open the bandages to heal them. Then they put the bandages back on me with the same valve. From that moment on, sometimes when I walk I feel like two bones are colliding with each other (although I don't know which ones), although this movement doesn't cause me pain, I still have a doubt. that this movement will perhaps prevent the bone from healing?
Hello Sheila,
You would have to check it urgently with your specialist since the bone must be immobilized.
Greetings
I have a broken tip of the humerus. I have been seeing a kinesiologist for 2 months now but the pain does not allow me to do the exercises. It hurts in the middle of my shoulder and elbow and also the elbow. It's really a lot of pain, I can't take many medications because I have anticoagulation.
Hello Teresa,
You can make an appointment with our team by calling 91 005 39 00 and we will evaluate your case personally.
Greetings
Good afternoon, my mother fell and had a fracture of the humerus, she is 80 years old, she is hypertensive, and the doctor says she needs to have surgery, is it convenient? I am looking forward to your response. Thank you so much
Hello Nora,
To give you an answer we would need a little more information.
You can make an appointment by calling 91 005 39 00.
Greetings
It is normal for the arm to swell after surgery.
Hello Lis,
Could be. Although it is best to have your specialist review it to verify that the recovery is as expected.
Greetings
Good evening, I have had a broken humerus for three weeks and it is very painful. My problem is that I don't realize when I am going to fall. The first time I lost consciousness and broke my foot. The second time, another foot, and now my shoulder and nose. I have had all the tests known and they don't show what is wrong with me.
Is there anyone who has something similar?
Thank you
Hello, good evening, my name is Mareli. My 6-year-old daughter fell down the stairs and has a right supracondylar fracture associated with radiological signs of atrial effusion in the fat pads.
Also findings related to inflammatory changes in soft tissues of the left elbow.
I would like to know if it is serious, if she just needs a cast or if she needs surgery?
And if there will be any kind of sequelae or complication in the future? Please, I await your response. Thank you very much, I am from Lima, Peru.
Hi Mareli. Supracondylar fractures in children usually require careful evaluation. If the fracture is displaced or involves the joint, surgery may be required; otherwise, it is managed with a cast. Appropriate treatment usually prevents sequelae. Consult a pediatric traumatologist urgently to determine the ideal management.
Greetings
Hello! Is it necessary to take anticoagulants during the immobilization process of a fracture?
Hello Santiago,
In order to determine whether anticoagulants are necessary, our specialists should evaluate your case in detail. If you wish, you can schedule an appointment so we can determine the best treatment for your situation.
Greetings.
I had distal humerus and elbow surgery... but in the sling position, I apply a little outward force to the arm and it is not firm and only rotates.
Hello Jairo,
We're sorry to hear about the discomfort you're experiencing after surgery. It's important to consult with your doctor or surgeon so they can assess your recovery status and ensure the sling is properly fitted. Sometimes, adjustments to your treatment or immobilization may be necessary to ensure your arm stays in the correct position and prevent any unnecessary movement.
Greetings.
Hello, 3 weeks ago I had surgery for a fractured humerus. They put in a plate and screws, but the problem is that at night my arm feels very hot. Is this something bad?
Hello Areli,
It's normal to experience some warmth in the surgical area, especially during recovery. However, if the warmth persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as excessive swelling, redness, or severe pain, it could be indicative of inflammation or even infection.
I would recommend that you consult with your doctor or surgeon so they can assess the area and make sure everything is okay. It's important to follow their instructions to avoid complications and ensure your recovery is progressing properly.
Greetings.
Bonjour
Il ya un mois, suite à un quad crash contre un arbre, j'ai eu une Fracture diaphyse humérale avec déplacement minime, Fracture grande tuberosité non déplacement.
J'ai d'abord eu une atèle souple puis maintenant une atèle rigide.
The douleurs at the level of the fracture are gérables. Par contre j'ai très mal à l'épaule, à l'avant bras et au poignet, que je ne parviens pas à faire tourner vers l'intérieur.
Are douleurs and gênent sont they normal?
Hello,
Merci d'avoir partagé votre situation. After a diaphysaire fracture of the humérus with a minimal déplacement and a non-deplacement fracture of the large tuberosity, it is frequently caused by the pain and genes in the surrounding areas, surtout during the first weeks of immobilisation. L'épaule, l'avant-bras et le poignet peuvent être douloureux en raison de l'inactivity, de la tension musculaire ou de la position prolongée imposée par l'attelle.
La difficulté à tourner le bras vers l'intérieur (internal rotation) peut également être due to l'immobilisation, à l'inflammation or à une atteinte légère de la coiffe des rotateurs, in particular if the fracture concerns the large tuberosity, a zone clé d'insertion musculaire.
Cependant, si la pain est intense ou persistent, ou si les symptômes s'aggravent au lieu de s'améliorer, il serait préférable que votre spécialiste réévalue l'évolution de la blessure afin d'exclure toute complication, comme une raideur articulaire important, une atteinte nerveuse ou un problème tendineux.
Une fois la phase d'immobilisation finitee, une rééducation encadrée par un kinésithérapeute spécialisé sera essentielle pour retrouver progressivement mobilité et force, sans risk de surmener la zone blessée.
If you find out, we can help you organize a consultation to evaluate your situation further in detail.
Thank you for your reply.
Je revois le spécialiste prochainement, je lui en parlerai pour faire en sorte que cela ne s'aggrave pas.
I suffered a humerus fracture 1 month and 10 days ago. I had surgery (plate and nails) and my elbow and wrist are completely immobile and unresponsive. I would like to know if it is advisable to use methods such as magnet therapy and electrostimulation. I emphasize that I am in a great deal of pain.
Hi, thanks for sharing your situation.
After a humerus fracture repaired with a plate and screws, it's normal to experience pain and limited movement in the elbow and wrist, especially in the first few weeks. However, before using magnetotherapy or electrostimulation, it's essential that a specialist evaluate your case, as the appropriate treatment depends on the type of fracture, the state of the fixation, and the progress of the healing process.
It is not recommended to start additional treatments without an in-person review to confirm that they are safe and appropriate for your recovery phase.
If you would like our team in Madrid to assess it, you can contact us at +34 910 053 900. We are here to help.