What is the treatment for a fractured humerus?

A humerus shaft fracture may be treated with or without surgery, depending on the fracture pattern and associated injuries (i.e., nerve injury or open fracture). A temporary splint extending from the shoulder to the forearm and holding the elbow bent at 90 degrees can be used for initial management of the fracture.

How long does a upper humerus fracture take to heal?

The broken bone will take 3 to 4 months to heal. During this time, you will need to perform exercises to regain range of motion, strength, and return to normal activities. Even if surgery is performed, recovery of full function often takes as long as 18 months.

How do you wear a sling for a broken humerus?

How to Wear Your Sling

  1. Gently pull the sling over your arm and elbow.
  2. Reach around your neck and grab the strap behind your elbow.
  3. Tighten the straps to keep your hand and forearm elevated above the level of your elbow.
  4. Attach the strap with the Velcro fasteners.

Can you sleep lying down with a broken humerus?

Lay flat. Though it may be uncomfortable, try sleeping, as much as possible, in a seated/upright position. Lying flat may allow the bone to move and bend, even in a cast.

How long do I have to wear a sling for a broken humerus?

One should wear the sling for a minimum of 3 weeks, and a maximum of 6 weeks. Your doctor will determine this. Between 3 to 6 weeks you may trial not wearing the sling- if you are comfortable then you may keep the sling off. If you are getting a lot of pain then you should keep wearing the sling.

What kind of splint is used for a fractured humerus?

A Humeral Fracture Brace, also known as a Sarmiento Brace) is used to stabilize a fracture in the upper arm while allowing motion in the forearm and hand. The brace promotes fracture healing by compressing the soft tissue in the arm to limit its motion.

How do you immobilize a broken upper arm?

Immobilisation. It is important to ensure that the upper arm remains hanging all the times to keep the fracture in the correct position. Keep it in the collar and cuff and do not rest your elbow on cushions, pillows or chair arms for example, as this will move the shoulder up.

Where is the proximal aspect of the humerus?

Your humerus has a head (your proximal aspect, near your shoulder), shaft and distal aspect (the end at the bottom, near your elbow). Other common labels like the surgical neck and greater tuberosity are just specific areas on your bone.

What is the humerus?

The humerus — also known as the upper arm bone — is a long bone that runs from the shoulder and scapula (shoulder blade) to the elbow.

What you need to know about humerus fracture?

What You Need to Know 1 The humerus is the arm bone between your shoulder and your elbow. 2 There are two types of humerus fractures based on the location of the break (s). 3 Trauma from a fall or accident are often the cause of this type of fracture.

What is a mid shaft fracture of the humerus?

A mid-shaft humerus fracture is a break in the middle of your humerus. Distal. Distal humerus fractures occur near your elbow. This type is usually part of a more complex elbow injury and sometimes involves loose bone fragments.