Physiotherapy Treatment of Shoulder Fractures

Humeral fractures are quite common, accounting for up to 5% of all fractures, with 80% of humeral fractures being mildly displaced or undisplaced. Many of these fractures are caused by osteoporosis, and a fracture of the forearm on the same side is a common occurrence. The possibility of nerve or artery injury as a result of the fracture is a serious worry, but it is uncommon. The apex of the arm (humerus neck – “shoulder fracture”) and the middle of the shaft of the humerus are common fracture sites. Have a look at Movement 101 for more info on this.

A direct fall on the arm, either on the hand, elbow, or straight onto the shoulder, is the most common cause of a humeral fracture. There can be a lot of muscular force at the time due to all the muscles that link to the upper humerus, regulating how much the bones are dragged into a displaced posture. Humeral fractures are more common in the elderly, with an average age of fracture of roughly 65 years, while younger persons are more likely to have a history of forceful trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or sports.
A medical cause, such as malignancy, must be suspected if the fracture occurred without significant force. On physical examination, pain will occur while moving the shoulder or elbow, there may be significant bruising and swelling, the arm may appear short if the fracture is displaced in shaft fractures, and shoulder movement will be severely restricted. Radial nerve injury is uncommon in upper humeral fractures, but it is more prevalent in shaft fractures, resulting in “wrist drop,” weakening of the wrist and finger extensors, and limited thumb mobility.