Table of Contents
A sudden fall or unexpected accident can leave your upper arm in pain and make even simple movements impossible. This type of injury is often a humerus fracture, which is a break in the bone connecting your shoulder to your elbow.
This bone plays an important role in lifting, reaching, and keeping your arm steady during everyday movements. Fractures can range from small cracks to serious breaks like supracondylar humerus fracture, causing pain, swelling, and limited movement.
Early diagnosis and proper treatment are important. Without the right care, a humerus fracture may heal poorly and affect long-term strength, flexibility, and joint function.
Key Takeaways
- Early care for a humerus fracture helps protect arm strength and reduces the risk of complications.
- Injuries range from minor cracks to more complex conditions, such as a supracondylar humerus fracture.
- Proper support and guided rehabilitation help restore movement and strength.
What Causes a Humerus Fracture?
A humerus fracture can occur due to:
- Sudden force, such as a direct blow or collision
- High-impact sports injuries, especially in active individuals
- Falls, even from standing height
- Repetitive stress that gradually weakens the bone
- Overuse related to physical work or sports
- Age-related bone changes, where a minor slip may cause a serious break
What Are the Signs I Should See a Specialist?
If your arm pain persists, feels weak, or doesn’t move normally, it may be time to see a shoulder specialist.
At Resilience Orthopedics, we provide personalized, expert care to help you heal safely and regain strength and confidence.
You should consider specialist care if you notice:
- Upper arm pain that doesn’t improve or worsens with movement
- Swelling or visible changes around the arm or shoulder
- Weakness or difficulty lifting or supporting the arm
- Tenderness in the injured area
- Limited movement in the shoulder, elbow, or arm
Early evaluation can help prevent long-term stiffness, weakness, and delayed healing.
Book a Consultation with Dr. Pamela Mehta, MD
The Best Orthopedic Surgeon in San Jose
Dr. Mehta is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who can help you recover from your joint condition. If you:
- Are Suffering From Pain and Mobility Issues
- Need Orthopedic Assessment and Advice
- Want Treatment From a Top Orthopedic Doctor
We Can Help
How Do We Diagnose a Humerus Fracture?
At Resilience Orthopedics, we begin with a thorough physical exam of your arm, assessing pain, swelling, and how well you can move it.
X-rays help us locate the fracture and determine its severity. In more complex cases, advanced imaging may be used for a clearer view. An accurate diagnosis helps us to create a treatment plan that’s tailored to you.
Treatment Options
Dr. Pamela Mehta focuses on helping you heal and return to the activities you enjoy. Your treatment begins with the minimally invasive options, with surgery recommended only when it’s necessary.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many humerus fractures heal without surgery with conservative care options such as:
- Bracing
- Rest
- Guided physical therapy
These help restore strength and movement while reducing the risk of complications such as shoulder dislocation, shoulder impingement, rotator cuff tears, and bone spurs.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended when the bone is unstable or misaligned. Common surgical options include plate and screw fixation or intramedullary nailing, depending on the type and location of the fracture.
The goal is to restore alignment, promote proper healing, and help you regain strength.
Recovery and Prevention
Healing from a humerus fracture takes time, but most people recover within 6–12 weeks and can return to their daily routine in 3–4 months.
Recovery is gradual, and physical therapy helps restore movement, rebuild strength, and prevent stiffness. For non-surgical fractures, wearing a sling provides support and comfort, helping you feel safe as your arm regains strength.
Why Patients Trust Resilience Orthopedics for Humerus Fracture Care
Dr. Pamela Mehta treats humerus fractures with precision, using advanced techniques tailored to your daily routine and recovery goals.
Our team supports you at every step, monitoring your progress and providing clear guidance to restore your strength and movement.
What to Expect at Resilience Orthopedics
At Resilience Orthopedics, we start with a one-on-one consultation to understand your injury, goals, and routine. From there, Dr. Mehta develops a plan to maintain bone alignment, and protect long-term shoulder and arm movement.
As you recover, we guide you through rehabilitation, monitor your progress, and provide tips to prevent future injuries. Our goal is to help you regain strength and safely return to work, hobbies, and daily activities.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mehta to begin focused, effective care.
Ready to Recover?
Take the first step in getting back to your normal self, and book an appointment with Dr. Mehta today.
We’re ready when you are!
