Understanding Humerus Fractures
Fracturing the bone of your upper arm—medically known as a humerus fracture—can be a painful and frightening experience, especially because the most common cause of this type of fracture is a bad fall.
It may seem like a severe enough break to require surgery, but, in reality, most humerus fractures can be effectively treated with physical therapy.
Prevalence and Initial Treatment
Humerus fractures are actually more common than hip fractures, especially in adults over the age of 50. If the fracture is nondisplaced (meaning that the bone fragments have not been jostled out of position as a result of the injury), chances are that you can avoid surgery.
This doesn’t mean that recovery is simple, however; most humerus fractures do require use of a sling or shoulder immobilizer, and you’ll need to avoid moving the shoulder for at least two weeks.
Recovery Process
The next stage of recovery involves wearing a more flexible brace and working with a physical therapist to increase the arm’s range of motion, along with x-rays to ensure that the bone is healing correctly.
At The Jackson Clinics, our physical therapists can help you with this process by designing a program that will build muscle strength and increase your flexibility, helping the joint begin to function more smoothly.
Recovery Time
Typical Duration
Recovery time for a humerus fracture can vary based on the severity of the break and your overall health. Generally, you can expect the initial healing phase to take about 6-8 weeks.
During this time, your body works hard to repair the bone, and it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s and physical therapist’s instructions carefully.
Full Recovery
Regaining full strength and mobility can take several months. Physical therapy plays a significant role in this phase, helping you to rebuild strength, improve flexibility, and ensure proper healing.
Staying committed to your rehabilitation program will make a significant difference in your recovery time.
Physical Therapy Treatment For A Broken Humerus
Benefits of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery. It offers numerous benefits, including:
- Enhanced Mobility: Through targeted exercises, physical therapy helps restore the range of motion in your shoulder and arm.
- Strength Building: Strengthening exercises are essential to rebuild muscle and support the healing bone.
- Pain Management: Techniques such as manual therapy and specific exercises can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Preventing Stiffness: Regular movement and stretching exercises prevent stiffness and improve flexibility.
- Customized Care: Your physical therapist will design a program tailored to your specific needs and progress.
What to Expect in Physical Therapy
Your physical therapy journey will typically include the following stages:
- Initial Assessment: Your therapist will evaluate your condition, review your medical history, and discuss your goals.
- Early Phase: Gentle movements and exercises to reduce stiffness and maintain range of motion while protecting the healing bone.
- Strengthening Phase: Gradually introducing more challenging exercises to build strength in your arm, shoulder, and surrounding muscles.
- Advanced Exercises: Focusing on restoring full function, balance, and coordination. This may include more dynamic movements and activities that mimic daily tasks.
- Home Exercises: Your therapist will provide exercises to perform at home, ensuring continued progress between sessions.
Staying Committed to Physical Therapy
Consistency is key to a successful recovery. Here are some tips to stay committed:
- Set Goals: Work with your therapist to set realistic, achievable goals for your recovery.
- Track Progress: Keep a journal or log of your exercises and improvements to stay motivated.
- Communicate: Keep open communication with your therapist about any concerns or difficulties.
- Stay Positive: Celebrate small victories and stay positive about your progress.
Did you know you have Direct Access* to Physical Therapy? No referral, no problem!
Protecting Your Arm
Be mindful of protecting your arm from any additional trauma. Even minor bumps or falls can complicate your recovery. Use your sling or brace as directed to ensure proper healing and stability.
What should you not do with a broken humerus?
While healing, it’s essential to avoid activities that can hinder your recovery or cause further injury. Here are some key points to remember:
- Do Not Lift Heavy Objects: Avoid lifting anything heavy with your injured arm, as this can strain the healing bone and surrounding tissues.
- Avoid Repetitive Motions: Repetitive movements can put stress on your healing bone and slow down the recovery process.
- Don’t Skip Physical Therapy: Skipping physical therapy sessions can delay your recovery. Consistent therapy is vital to regaining full function.
Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to your body and avoid pushing through pain. While some discomfort is normal, sharp pain or significant discomfort is a signal to rest and consult your healthcare provider.
By following these guidelines and working closely with your healthcare team, you’ll be on the right path to a successful recovery.
Importance of Patience & Participation
Remember, patience and dedication to your treatment plan are key to getting back to your normal activities safely.
It is important that you be patient and stick with your program, because this type of recovery involves not only bone but also muscles, ligaments and soft tissues. Your participation is essential to get you out of that sling or brace and back to normal activities as soon as possible.
Surgical Intervention and Post-Surgery Therapy
If your humerus fracture does require surgery, we can design a therapeutic program to facilitate your recovery. Treatment will focus on your regaining the range of motion, strength and dexterity in your wrist, hand, elbow and shoulder through a series of stretching and strengthening exercises that you can practice with us and at home.
No matter where or how you injured your humerus or whether or not you have surgery, a regular physical therapy program can help make your recovery comfortable, safe and effective.
If you’re in the Northern Virginia area, we’re here to help! Check out one of our 18 locations to get started with us today.