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Contents
  • The First Steps
  • The Waiting Game
  • The Rehab Revolution
  • The Long-Term Outlook

Healing Hands: The Journey to Recovery from Proximal Humeral Fractures

Healing Hands: The Journey to Recovery from Proximal Humeral Fractures

The Road to Recovery

Recovering from a proximal humeral fracture isn't just about letting the bone heal. It's a journey that involves careful treatment and rehabilitation to regain full shoulder function.
Contents
  • The First Steps
  • The Waiting Game
  • The Rehab Revolution
  • The Long-Term Outlook

The First Steps

Initial treatment for most proximal humeral fractures is surprisingly simple. It usually involves immobilizing the arm in a sling or collar and cuff. This keeps the bone stable while it begins to heal. Ice and pain medications are often used to manage pain and swelling. Contrary to what you might think, doctors don't usually try to 'set' or realign the bone fragments.

The Waiting Game

Healing takes time, typically 6 to 12 weeks for proximal humeral fractures. But that doesn't mean you'll be stuck in a sling the whole time. Recent studies suggest that starting gentle movement exercises as early as one to two weeks after the injury can lead to better outcomes. These early exercises, like pendulum swings, help prevent stiffness without disrupting the healing process.
A proximal humeral fracture involves a break in the upper arm bone near the shoulder joint, requiring careful treatment and rehabilitation for full recovery.

The Rehab Revolution

As healing progresses, rehabilitation becomes crucial. This usually involves a series of exercises designed to gradually improve shoulder mobility and strength. You might start with simple movements and progress to more challenging exercises over time. The goal is to restore your shoulder's range of motion and function, including the ability to reach overhead and behind your back.

The Long-Term Outlook

With proper care and dedication to rehabilitation, most people recover well from proximal humeral fractures. Studies show that patients who follow a well-designed rehab program often regain over 90% of their shoulder function and 85% of their motion. However, it's important to be patient - full recovery can take several months.

FAQs

How long will I need to wear a sling?

Typically 2-4 weeks, but your doctor will advise based on your specific case.

When can I start physical therapy?

Often within 1-2 weeks, but always follow your doctor's recommendations.

Will I need surgery?

Most proximal humeral fractures don't require surgery, but complex cases might.

Can I speed up the healing process?

Following your treatment plan and staying healthy can optimize healing.

What if I don't regain full motion?

Additional therapy or treatments may be recommended if progress plateaus.

The Power of Patience

Recovery from a proximal humeral fracture is a journey that requires time, patience, and dedication, but the results are often worth the effort.
Ready to take the next step in your recovery? Chat with Doctronic for personalized advice on rehabilitation exercises and strategies.
Additional References
  1. Hodgson S. Proximal humerus fracture rehabilitation. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2006; 442:131.
  2. Handoll HH, Elliott J, Thillemann TM, et al. Interventions for treating proximal humeral fractures in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 6:CD000434.
  3. Koval KJ, Gallagher MA, Marsicano JG, et al. Functional outcome after minimally displaced fractures of the proximal part of the humerus. J Bone Joint Surg Am 1997; 79:203.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.