Fractured Shaft of Humerus

What is a Fractured Shaft of the Humerus?

The humerus is the long bone of the upper arm that extends from the shoulder joint to the elbow joint. The shaft of the humerus refers to the long middle section of this bone.

A fractured shaft of the humerus occurs when this section of the bone cracks or breaks due to trauma or significant force. Because this bone is surrounded by muscles and located near important nerves, fractures can affect both arm movement and nerve function.

These fractures can vary from simple cracks in the bone to more complex injuries involving displaced bone fragments.

How Does a Fractured Shaft of the Humerus Happen?

Humeral shaft fractures typically occur due to sudden trauma or impact to the arm.

Common causes include:

• Falling onto an outstretched arm
• Direct trauma to the upper arm
• Sports injuries
• Road traffic accidents
• High-impact falls

In older adults, weakened bones from osteoporosis can increase the risk of fractures even after minor falls.

What Are the Symptoms of a Fractured Shaft of the Humerus?

Symptoms usually appear immediately after the injury.

Common symptoms include:

• Severe pain in the upper arm
• Swelling around the arm
• Bruising or discoloration
• Inability to move the arm
• Deformity or abnormal arm position
• Grinding or crackling sensation at the fracture site
• Weakness in the arm or hand
• Numbness or tingling in the fingers if nerves are affected
• Visible shortening of the arm in severe fractures

Because important nerves run close to the humerus, some patients may also experience temporary nerve-related symptoms.

What Should I Do If I Have a Fractured Shaft of the Humerus?

A fractured shaft of the humerus requires urgent medical assessment.

If you suspect this injury:

• Avoid moving or using the injured arm
• Support the arm with a sling if available
• Apply ice wrapped in a cloth for 15–20 minutes to reduce swelling
• Seek immediate medical attention at a hospital or emergency department

Doctors will usually confirm the fracture with X-rays, and additional imaging may be performed if necessary.

Treatment may involve:

• Immobilisation using a brace or cast
• Pain management
• Surgical fixation if the fracture is displaced or unstable

After the bone begins to heal, physiotherapy is essential for restoring arm function.

Physiotherapy Treatment for a Fractured Shaft of the Humerus

Physiotherapy plays a key role in restoring arm mobility, muscle strength, and functional use of the upper limb.

At ACE Physio Sports in Singapore, physiotherapists develop personalised rehabilitation programmes based on the stage of healing and the patient’s functional goals.

Physiotherapy treatment may include:

• Range-of-motion exercises to restore shoulder and elbow mobility
• Strengthening exercises for the upper arm and shoulder muscles
• Soft tissue mobilisation to reduce muscle tightness
• Manual therapy techniques to improve joint movement
• Postural correction exercises to optimise shoulder alignment
• Electrotherapy to assist with pain management
• Taping or bracing techniques for support
• Functional training to restore daily arm movements

These treatments help patients regain confidence in using the arm and prevent long-term stiffness.

What Should I Avoid With a Fractured Shaft of the Humerus?

If you suspect or have been diagnosed with a humeral shaft fracture, certain activities should be avoided.

Patients should avoid:

• Using or lifting with the injured arm
• Sudden or uncontrolled arm movements
• Hot showers or baths during the early injury stage
• Heat rubs or massage near the fracture site
• Alcohol consumption shortly after injury

These activities may increase swelling or cause movement of the fractured bone.

Can There Be Long-Term Effects?

Most humeral shaft fractures heal successfully with proper treatment and rehabilitation.

However, possible long-term effects may include:

• Shoulder stiffness
• Muscle weakness
• Reduced arm mobility
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Delayed bone healing
• Non-union of the fracture

Early physiotherapy significantly reduces these risks and helps patients achieve the best possible recovery.

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports

At ACE Physio Sports – Singapore, our physiotherapists specialise in orthopaedic rehabilitation, sports injuries, and post-fracture recovery.

Our clinic provides:

• Experienced musculoskeletal physiotherapists
• Personalised rehabilitation programmes
• Evidence-based physiotherapy treatments
• Structured recovery plans for upper limb injuries

Conveniently located near East Coast Road, we regularly treat patients from Marine Parade, Katong, Joo Chiat, Siglap, and Bedok.

Book an Appointment

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosport.com