Fractured Humerus Fixation

Fixation of a FracturedHumeral Shaft

Fractured humeral shaft fixation surgery is a procedure performed when you have broken the shaft of your humerus (arm bone). The majority of humeral fractures occur at the surgical neck of the bone, near the shoulder. Mid-shaft humeral fractures are usually the result of direct trauma in younger people, whereas in elderly individuals, fractures most commonly occur from a fall from standing height. People with a fractured humeral shaft often present with arm pain, swelling, and damage to the surrounding soft tissue.

Most humeral shaft fractures are successfully managed non-operatively using a functional brace with a collar and cuff. Fixation of the humeral shaft is often required when the bone is displaced (i.e., the bone fragments are separated from each other).

Surgery for a fractured humeral shaft involves realigning the fractured bone through an incision into the skin and muscle. The bone is then secured in place using a plate or screws. This procedure is called open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). The indications for surgery depend on the severity of the fracture, the patient’s age and overall health, and the time elapsed from injury to treatment.

Physiotherapy treatment following humeral shaft fixation is essential to help restore the functional use of your arm. A structured rehabilitation programme with acephysiosports.com will focus on regaining strength, mobility, and overall function, helping you return to your previous level of activity as safely and efficiently as possible.

Physiotherapy prior toFixation of a Fractured Humerus

Physiotherapy will help prepare your arm before surgery and support your recovery afterward. It will also provide guidance on managing your immediate symptoms and what to expect following your operation. Treatments offered by acephysiosports.com may include:

  • Targeted exercises to maintain range of motion and flexibility
  • Strengthening exercises for surrounding muscles
  • Pain management techniques
  • Posture and movement education to protect the arm
  • Functional training to maintain daily activity levels

Symptoms following Fixation of a Fractured Humerus

Following your surgery, you may experience pain, swelling, bruising, and stiffness. Your arm will then be placed in a functional brace to protect it and limit movement during the initial stages of recovery.

Physiotherapy after Fixation of a Fractured Humerus

Physiotherapy treatment at acephysiosports.com will ensure you get the most out of your surgery so that you regain your range of movement, muscle strength, and function in a safe and effective way. Acephysiosports.com will provide individualised assessment and treatment following your surgery to maximise your potential and improve your quality of life.

Weeks 1-3

During the initial stage of your treatment, your physiotherapist at acephysiosports.com will concentrate on reducing your acute symptoms. Treatment will include:

  • Pain management techniques to reduce discomfort
  • Swelling control through elevation, compression, or gentle mobilization
  • Gentle range of motion exercises within safe limits
  • Education on protecting the arm and avoiding harmful movements
  • Guidance on daily activities to minimize stress on the healing bone

Weeks 4-6

After your fourth week, your physiotherapy programme will focus on gradually weaning you off the brace to encourage increased movement in your arm, improving flexibility and reducing stiffness. Strengthening exercises will be introduced to rebuild muscle strength and enhance your ability to perform daily tasks independently. Your physiotherapist at acephysiosports.com will develop a personalised exercise plan tailored to your specific needs and goals, ensuring a safe and effective progression towards full functional recovery.

  • Gradual range of motion exercises to improve elbow, shoulder, and wrist mobility
  • Gentle strengthening exercises for the surrounding muscles of the humerus
  • Functional task practice to restore independence in daily activities
  • Stretching exercises to reduce stiffness and maintain flexibility
  • Education on posture and safe movement to protect the healing bone

Weeks 7-12

At this stage of your recovery, your physiotherapist at acephysiosports.com will focus on progressing your exercises to be functional and task-specific, ensuring that improvements in strength, range of motion, and coordination directly translate to your daily activities and personal goals. Treatment will consist of:

  • Functional strengthening exercises targeting the shoulder, arm, and surrounding muscles
  • Task-specific movement training to improve daily activities and occupational or sports performance
  • Progressive resistance exercises to restore muscle strength and endurance
  • Range of motion exercises to ensure full mobility of the elbow and shoulder
  • Proprioception and coordination drills to enhance joint stability and control
  • Core stability exercises to support overall upper limb function and prevent compensatory movements

Weeks 12+

At this stage of your recovery, you will notice significant improvements in both your strength and range of movement. Physiotherapy will focus on making exercises functional, ensuring that you can use your arm effectively in everyday tasks and activities. Your physiotherapist will continue to guide you through targeted strengthening, flexibility, and stability exercises, while also providing advice on long-term strategies to maintain your arm’s health and prevent future injuries.

  • Advanced functional strengthening exercises for the shoulder, arm, and surrounding muscles
  • Task-specific drills to simulate everyday activities or sports movements
  • Resistance training to further increase strength and endurance
  • Fine motor and coordination exercises to optimise arm control
  • Range of motion exercises to maintain and improve flexibility
  • Proprioception and stability training to prevent future injuries
  • Guidance on long-term self-management strategies and exercises

Summary

Physiotherapy is a vital part of your rehabilitation, and acephysiosports.com will provide a structured, personalised treatment programme to restore full movement, strength, and functional use of your arm, helping you return to your previous level of activity. Call acephysiosports.com now on +65 81535374 for more information or to book an appointment.

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