Fractured Humerus (Broken Arm): Everything You Need To Know

In this video the surgeons discuss shoulder fractures. They discuss the mechanism of injury, the signs and symptoms and they review an X-ray. They discuss the different types of shoulder fractures. Finally, they discuss treatment and outcomes.

Medical emergency
Do NOT use the Video for medical emergencies. If you have a medical emergency, call a physician or qualified healthcare provider, or CALL 911 immediately. Under no circumstances should you attempt self-treatment based on anything you have seen or read on the Video.

General information is not medical advice
The general information provided on the Video is for informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or care, nor is it intended to be a substitute therefore. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider properly licensed to practise medicine or general healthcare in your jurisdiction concerning any questions you may have regarding any information obtained from this Video and any medical condition you believe may be relevant to you or to someone else. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Video. Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet, or fitness program. Information obtained on the Video is not exhaustive and does not cover all diseases, ailments, physical conditions, or their treatment.

[patriciasadlertrainor]

I broke my proximal humerus about 7 years ago, at 63. Probably the most pain I have ever had. Yes, my arm was bruised from shoulder to elbow. I was on painkillers round the clock for the first 3 weeks and only managed to sleep propped up on pillows waking up every couple hours. For anyone going through this it does get better even if it feels like hell at first.

[michelleb]

I’m 9 weeks into a shoulder fracture of the greater tuberosity and glenoid. I’ve been doing my Physio exercises everyday. Function is still limited but getting better each day. I’ve been filming one of my exercises each day so I can keep track of it to show my Physiotherapist. I’m so determined to get this shoulder back to full functionality. The exercises are so important. Keep doing them EVERY DAY!

[tgcaviness]

Thanks so much for this video. I broke my proximal humerus two weeks ago - just saw surgeon today, and we decided to go the non-surgical route. EVERYTHING you shared echoed what I’ve experienced so far and what they told me. So that’s reassuring - which makes a huge difference when you’re going through something like this. Thank you again!

[jennymarti]

I appreciate this video so much. I watched it right after breaking my greater tuberosity two months ago and it was by far the best info on wat t expect. I’ve been in PT for about a month and they are thrilled with my ROM. I still have trouble reaching behind my back and the muscles are way tight in some places and weak in others. I can lift all the way up forward and sideways. PT says I should be good sooner than later, and vigilant doing of homework exercises is getting me recovered fast. Obv everyone is different, but I was very lucky to have a simple break that healed quickly. I’m confident the rest will come, if I’m patient and put in the work. Thanks for all you do!

[packatak]

A good ortho surgeon is worth their weight in gold!! Had a significant shoulder fracture/dislocation a few years back. Had surgery, but was not making progress in PT. Decided to get a second opinion from a shoulder specialist. He fixed me up!! It was amazing.

[sag]

Measuring my progress through this information. 2/1/22, I had a long fractured humerus, 2/18/22, plate was attached and through balanced meals, rest and gently moving my hands, arm mobility has greatly improved to the present, 3/21/22, I am able to extend the arm straight up to 180°. OT is very happy with progress. I'll see my surgeon on 3/30/22. Really looking forward to thanking him for the wonderful work he did, piecing me back together.! I plan to share this site with him. Thank you,

[robinb]

Thank you for this video. I fell and fractured my humerus in 3 places, had ORIF and am now at 14 weeks post surgery in PT. I never would have expected a recovery like this but your video has been a huge help!

[darlenericotta]

There are so many good videos by These Docs and they listen to your questions and answer them as well. Thanks again Docs for being out there. Take care.

[ryankay]

Great video again! After my surgery a year ago I am considered fully healed with about 75% rom, and still have some pain. The important thing is I can do pretty much everything I did before my accident. Biggest piece of advice, do as your physiotherapist tells you to do. Do your excersises!

[maritzarodriguez]

Great video. I listened it when I felt and didn’t know much about it I am 57 and never had experience a fracture in my life!! Same situation described by this great Docs . No surgery needed which I was glad. Spent the rest of Nov’23 until 30th of Dec sleeping if you call it, as I slept on my sofa seated! Gosh getting up every 2 h to walk and drink herbal teas… very hard. I am right handed and that was my broken arm. The sling worked well for 3/4 weeks but then hand/arm got swollen and painful. I took painkillers etc. Bone has healed. Physio started at 5 weeks. But my hand can’t get the flexibility yet. It’s like if it was made of concrete! Nearly 3 months. But I moved to my bed the 1st Jan’24 never mind the pain which is getting lesser . Winter in Scotland doesn’t help as I am very scare of falling . Hoping to go back to work soon but I use laptops for my job… I had been advised to try to get my hand more flexible.. anyway.. it’s a journey but amazing to see how our body recovers !! Best of luck and Tk you Docs again.

[chaewhite]

You Docs are the BEST! Always informative and helpful. Thank you so much for taking the time to do these videos. PS They’re entertaining!

[micheleharris]

You guys were spot on with everything you said. I fell 5 months ago and I'm still fighting to get my full range of motion back. Feel free to emphasize the pain; the pain when I felt was the worst I've ever experienced in my life. 😮

[TravelTheWorldlk]

My humerus fractured into two parts four months ago, necessitating surgery. I was armeressle with a friend when I had a sudden fracture. The doctor corrected it with internal fixation, and I began working out again after two months, quickly regaining my muscles. I understand that those who watch this video are likely to be injured or devastated. So I am happy to share my experience.

[austinthiel]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video. I broke my humerus dirt biking, and I was blown away by all the stuff my arm did in the first week and a half; It's nice to finally see my knuckles again. You touched on people sleeping in armchairs because it is best to let the arm hang at all times during healing. When is it typical for patients you've had to finally get back into that horizontal sleeping position?

[HealthCoach-TaiChiGung]

Great video. And I like how you ended with remember you are in charge of your own health. For sure. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[annahui]

Thank you Drs you guys are so good with the explanation

[jackkip]

I fell this summer on wet concrete. Tried to catch myself on the way down on a nearby chair. Ended up fracturing my greater tuberosity and tore my supraspinatus. Luckily no surgery but it has been a long road to recovery. The trick is not to get impatient. Slow and steady wins the race.

[Jorgeola]

Hi Dr.'s, I dislocated and fractured my left shoulder on 5 Oct 21. Here in Port st.Lucie Fl, the treatment for my injury as you described in the video. I really appreciate your videos and the information you provide. The humor is good to. Thanks for sharing.

[mandydehoog]

You both are so informative. Love your videos❤️🇨🇦

[anacee]

Thank you, doctors, you have answered my questions. I was not sure I wanted surgery on my shoulder. Now I know.