What Is A Proximal Humerus Fracture?
Proximal humerus fractures are common injuries, making up about 5% of all fractures in adults. They affect the ‘ball-and-socket’ joint of the shoulder, with females and older patients more likely to experience them.
High energy injuries can lead to associated fractures or other injuries as well. If you suspect you have sustained a proximal humerus fracture, it is important to seek medical attention from an orthopaedic specialist at Total Orthopaedic Care & Surgery.
Causes of Proximal Humerus Fracture
The exact cause of a proximal humerus fracture depends on how the injury occurred. High-energy trauma is often the cause, such as a fall from a height or a car crash. Osteoporosis can also increase your risk of sustaining this type of fracture.
Symptoms of Proximal Humerus Fracture
Severe pain and swelling in the shoulder
Bruising
Difficulty moving the arm
It is important to seek medical advice if you experience any of these symptoms after an injury.
Diagnosing of Proximal Humerus Fracture
Your orthopaedic specialist at Total Orthopaedic Care & Surgery will ask you some questions about your injury, how it occurred and your current symptoms before performing a careful examination of your shoulder to rule out associated injuries to the nerves and vessels near the shoulder.
X-rays of the affected shoulder are commonly performed to identify the pattern and severity of the injury, while occasionally further imaging such as Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may be required.
Treatment of Proximal Humerus Fracture
Treatment for proximal humerus fractures will depend on the severity of the fracture and other factors such as age, overall health, and activity level. In some cases, rest combined with an armsling, ice, pain medication and physical therapy may be sufficient.
However, more severe fractures may require surgical intervention such as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), which involves realigning the bone fragments and fixing them in place with plates, screws, nails or potentially bone grafting if needed. In select cases, a Shoulder Replacement may also be required.
Rehabilitation After Treatment
Rehabilitation after treatment for a proximal humerus fracture typically involves physical therapy to restore strength, range of motion, and function in the shoulder joint. The amount of rehabilitation allowed will depend on the level of healing as noted on x-rays at each follow up consultation.
It is important to follow your orthopaedic specialist’s instructions for treatment and rehabilitation to ensure the best possible outcome for your proximal humerus fracture. If you suspect you have sustained a proximal humerus fracture, do make an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist at Total Orthopaedic Care & Surgery for a detailed assessment of your condition.
Conclusion
Proximal humerus fractures can occur due to high-energy trauma or osteoporosis. Symptoms may include severe pain and difficulty moving the arm. X-rays are commonly used to diagnose this type of injury. Treatment options depend on the severity of the fracture, with physical therapy often necessary for rehabilitation following treatment.
If you suspect you have sustained a proximal humerus fracture, seek medical attention from an orthopaedic specialist at Total Orthopaedic Care & Surgery for a proper diagnosis and consultation.
