Rehabilitation

What happens as I recover?

Adult bone takes a long time to heal fully. By six weeks the healing bone tissue (callus) is mature enough to be seen on x-ray and has about 50% of its eventual strength. At three months post injury the fracture is showing evidence of consolidation with mature compact bone bridging across the fracture. It is approximately 80% strong at this stage. The remaining maturation and consolidation can take up to 18 months post injury. In terms of function this means that the arm needs some sort of protection in a cast or brace for six weeks or more. After that there should be some limitation of function until three months post injury. Thereafter, patients may return to heavier activities on a graduated basis and with the understanding that the bone is not full healed. This timetable depends on the healing status of the fracture - it may take longer.

Physical Therapy (PT) is often needed during the recovery phase of a fractured humerus. If the arm has been immobilized in a cast PT is helpful in recovering the range of motion of the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand. Once the fracture is strong enough the therapist will also supervise an exercise program to recover strength, dexterity and endurance.

Overall the prognosis for full recovery from a fractured humerus is excellent. The bone should heal in satisfactory position and recover full strength. Shoulder and elbow function and the strength of the arm should fully recover and most people are able to return to all the activities they were able to do before the injury.