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Cracking the Code: What You Need to Know About Proximal Humeral Fractures
Published: Jan 09, 2024
Proximal humeral fractures are a common but often misunderstood injury. These breaks near the top of your upper arm bone can be a real pain, especially for older adults.
Who's at Risk?
Proximal humeral fractures are the third most common fracture in older adults, after hip and wrist fractures. They're especially prevalent in people over 60, with women being three to four times more likely to experience them than men. The main culprits? Frequent falls and low bone density.
The Ouch Factor
If you've got a proximal humeral fracture, you'll know it. Expect moderate to severe shoulder pain that gets worse when you move. You might find yourself holding your arm close to your side for comfort. Swelling and bruising are common, and in severe cases, you might notice a visible deformity in your shoulder.
Cracking the Code
Doctors use a system called the Neer classification to describe these fractures. It's like a secret code that helps them understand how serious the break is. The system looks at four main parts of the upper arm bone and how they're affected. The more parts involved, the more complex the fracture.
Treatment: To Cut or Not to Cut?
Good news! About 80% of proximal humeral fractures don't need surgery. For simpler breaks, treatment usually involves wearing a sling and starting gentle exercises after a week or two. More complex fractures might need surgery, but recent studies suggest that non-surgical treatment can be just as effective for many patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically 6-12 weeks for full healing.
Most patients regain over 90% function with proper rehabilitation.
Often within 2-3 weeks, depending on your job requirements.
Maintaining bone health and preventing falls can help reduce risk.
Some patients may experience reduced mobility or develop shoulder arthritis.
The Road to Recovery
While proximal humeral fractures can be painful and disruptive, with proper care and patience, most people recover well and regain good shoulder function.
References
- Court-Brown CM, Garg A, McQueen MM. The epidemiology of proximal humeral fractures. Acta Orthop Scand 2001; 72:365.
- Handoll HH, Elliott J, Thillemann TM, et al. Interventions for treating proximal humeral fractures in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 6:CD000434.
- Rangan A, Handoll H, Brealey S, et al. Surgical vs nonsurgical treatment of adults with displaced fractures of the proximal humerus: the PROFHER randomized clinical trial. JAMA 2015; 313:1037.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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