

Open fractures, in which the bone penetrates the skin.Dislocated fractures, in which the humeral head has dislocated from the shoulder socket.The treatment of proximal humeral fracture in adults. Surgery may be necessary or recommended for:Ĥ Burkhart KJ, Dietz SO, Bastian L, Thelen U, Hoffmann R, Müller LP. If the bone cannot be surgically repaired, the ball of the shoulder may be replaced. Surgeons may use nails, plates, and screws to secure pieces of bone together. In some cases, the broken proximal humerus must be surgically repaired or replaced. Surgical Treatment for a Proximal Humerus Fracture See Treating Acute Sports and Exercise Injuries in the First 24 to 72 Hoursīeginning therapy within 2 weeks has been shown to improved outcomes in proximal humerus fractures treated nonsurgically. Physical therapy can start 2 to 3 weeks after the injury occurs. A doctor may prescribe appointments with a physical therapist. Gentle range-of-motion exercises may begin 7 to 10 days after injury. Physicians will often prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including ibuprofen, and/or other pain medications during the healing process. A doctor will typically recommend keeping the arm immobilized for about 2 to 3 weeks, but the amount of time can vary on the fracture type, age of the patient, and other medical conditions. A swathe is another immobilization option that provides extra support and further reduces movement by wrapping horizontally around the chest and arm. Wearing a sling provides arm support and immobilization. Nonsurgical Treatment for a Proximal Humerus FractureĮxamples of nonsurgical treatment are as follows:
