Humerus Fracture
What Is a Humerus Fracture?
The humerus is the long bone of the upper arm, running from the shoulder to the elbow. A humerus fracture can occur at several locations along this bone, but fractures near the shoulder end (the proximal humerus) are especially common in older adults and are closely tied to shoulder function, since this portion of the bone forms the “ball” of the shoulder’s ball-and-socket joint.
What Causes a Humerus Fracture?
- A fall onto an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder, especially common in older adults with weaker bone density
- A direct, high-energy blow to the arm, such as in a car accident
- Sports-related collisions or falls
- In some cases, a fracture can occur through a bone weakened by osteoporosis or, less commonly, a bone tumor, from a relatively minor fall
What Are the Symptoms of a Humerus Fracture?
- Significant pain in the upper arm or shoulder
- Swelling and bruising, which may extend down the arm over the following days
- Visible deformity or an abnormal angle to the arm in more severe fractures
- Inability to lift or move the arm
- Numbness or tingling in the hand, which can indicate involvement of the nerves that travel alongside the humerus
Does a Humerus Fracture Always Involve the Shoulder Joint?
Not always — the location of the break matters a great deal. Fractures near the top of the humerus (proximal humerus fractures) are the most likely to affect shoulder function, since this is the “ball” portion of the shoulder joint. Fractures in the middle of the bone (the shaft) are further from the joint itself but carry their own considerations, including a higher association with injury to the radial nerve, which controls wrist and finger extension.
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Treatment Options for a Humerus Fracture
Nonsurgical treatment is often successful for fractures that remain well-aligned, particularly many proximal humerus fractures in older patients:
- A sling or specialized brace to support the arm
- Gradual, carefully guided return of motion as the fracture heals
- Physical therapy to restore shoulder strength and motion once healing is confirmed
Surgery may be recommended for fractures that are significantly displaced, involve multiple bone fragments, or disrupt the joint surface itself. Depending on the fracture pattern, this can involve realigning and securing the bone with plates and screws, or, in more severe proximal humerus fractures in older patients — particularly where the bone quality or fracture pattern make repair unreliable — a shoulder replacement may be considered instead. Learn more on our Humerus Fracture Surgery page.
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Dr. Palsis specializes in the treatment of knee, shoulder, and sports injuries.