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Contents
  • Understanding the Anatomy
  • Who Is at Risk?
  • Mechanism of Injury

What Causes Midshaft Humerus Fractures in Adults?

What Causes Midshaft Humerus Fractures in Adults?

The Big Picture

Midshaft humerus fractures are breaks in the long bone of the upper arm. These fractures can cause significant pain and require careful treatment to ensure proper healing.
Contents
  • Understanding the Anatomy
  • Who Is at Risk?
  • Mechanism of Injury

Understanding the Anatomy

The humerus is the largest bone in the upper arm, connecting the shoulder and elbow. It serves as an attachment point for various muscles, such as the biceps and triceps, and is supplied by major arteries like the brachial artery. The radial nerve runs near the humeral shaft, making it vulnerable to injury in fractures.

Who Is at Risk?

Midshaft humeral fractures occur in about 2% of all fractures and are more common in two groups: young males involved in high-energy trauma and older females who experience low-velocity falls. Risk factors include age, osteoporosis, and trauma, often resulting from a direct blow or fall.
A midshaft humerus fracture is a break in the long bone of the upper arm, often resulting from trauma. It can cause significant pain and requires careful treatment.

Mechanism of Injury

These fractures usually result from direct trauma to the arm or overuse causing a stress fracture. Activities like arm wrestling or throwing can lead to midshaft fractures due to intense muscle contractions or underlying stress fractures.

FAQs

What is a midshaft humerus fracture?

It's a break in the long bone of the upper arm, often due to trauma.

Who is most at risk?

Young males in high-energy activities and older females with low-velocity falls.

How does a midshaft humerus fracture occur?

Usually from direct trauma or strong muscle contractions during activities.

Can the radial nerve be injured?

Yes, the radial nerve can be affected, leading to wrist and finger weakness.

What are the symptoms?

Severe arm pain, swelling, and possible nerve-related symptoms.

Key Takeaways

Midshaft humerus fractures can have significant impacts if not identified and treated properly.
Talk with Doctronic to learn more about preventing and managing bone fractures.
Additional References
  1. Ekholm R, Adami J, Tidermark J, et al. Fractures of the shaft of the humerus. J Bone Joint Surg Br 2006; 88:1469.
  2. Ogawa K, Yoshida A. Throwing fracture of the humeral shaft. Am J Sports Med 1998; 26:242.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.