Humerus Fracture Experts in San Antonio
What is humerus fracture?
A humerus fracture is an injury to the upper arm bone, which runs from the shoulder to the elbow. These injuries can occur from falls, sports accidents, car accidents, or direct trauma. Because the humerus is essential for shoulder and arm function, getting timely and accurate care is key to restoring strength, motion, and comfort.
If you’re dealing with a humerus fracture, our team at The Hand & Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio is here to help. Our specialists provide targeted treatment to realign the bone, reduce pain, and protect long-term mobility. With modern surgical methods and personalized recovery guidance, we’re committed to helping you heal with confidence.
Types of humerus Fractures
-
Proximal Humerus Fractures
Near the shoulder. These often require specialized evaluation to determine if surgical reconstruction is needed.
-
Midshaft Humerus Fractures
Along the middle of the bone. Many of these can be treated without surgery using bracing techniques, depending on alignment and stability.
-
Distal Humerus Fractures
Near the elbow. These frequently require surgical repair due to their involvement with the joint surface.
Common symptoms of Humerus fractures:
Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the break. Common signs include:
Sudden, sharp pain in the shoulder, upper arm, or elbow
Swelling and visible bruising
Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm
Shoulder or arm deformity when the bone is displaced
Limited or painful range of motion
Grinding or instability when trying to move the arm
Numbness or tingling if nerves are affected
common causes of Humerus fractures:
Humerus fractures can occur from a wide range of injuries. Some of the most common causes include:
Falls - A direct fall onto the shoulder, outstretched arm, or elbow can lead to a proximal humerus fracture or a break along the midshaft.
Sports injuries - Contact sports, cycling accidents, and high-impact activities often result in twisting injuries or direct blows to the upper arm.
Motor vehicle accidents - High-energy trauma can cause more complex fracture patterns that may require surgical treatment
Osteoporosis - Weakened bone density increases the risk of fractures
Direct Impact or Trauma- forceful strike to the upper arm, such as during a collision or heavy fall.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a specialist promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can be instrumental in preventing further damage and minimizing long-term complications.
Humerus Fracture Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments -
Many humerus fractures heal successfully without surgery. Non-operative approaches may include:
Sling or functional bracing
Rest and immobilization
Swelling and pain control
Guided therapy to restore range of motion and strength
Surgical Treatments -
Surgery may be recommended when the bone is significantly displaced, unstable, or involves the shoulder or elbow joint. Surgical options include:
Internal fixation with plates, screws, or rods
Reconstruction of the fracture for improved alignment
In severe proximal humerus injuries, shoulder replacement may be considered
Rehabilitation -
Our Certified Hand Therapists guide recovery with custom splints, exercises, and progressive rehab plans designed to get you back to work, sports, and daily life.
Why Choose The Hand and Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio for humerus fracture Treatment?
Our team at The Hand and Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio is dedicated to guiding patients through every step of their recovery from forearm fractures. Our physicians bring over 100 years of combined experience, with expertise in treating injuries to the radius and ulna across multiple training backgrounds. In addition to your surgeon, you may work with our skilled orthopaedic fellows, who have advanced training in fracture management. Our team also includes compassionate front desk staff, medical assistants, x-ray technicians, and cast technicians, all focused on your comfort and ensuring the best possible outcome throughout your treatment journey.
Meet Our Physicians
-
David P. Green, M.D.
-
Mark Bagg, M.D.
-
David W. Person, M.D., F.A.C.S.
-
Ramesh C. Srinivasan, M.D.
OTHER Reconstructive & Trauma ISSUES WE CAN HELP WITH
Tendon Repair or Transfer
Joint and Ligament Reconstruction
Trigger Finger Surgery
Polydactyly Correction
Osteotomy
Dupuytren’s Contracture
Did you know we offer in-house therapy?
Hand therapy is a merging of occupational and physical therapy theory and practice that combines comprehensive knowledge of the structure of the upper limb with function and activity. Using specialized skills in assessment, planning and treatment, hand therapists provide therapeutic interventions to prevent dysfunction, restore function and/or reverse the progression of pathology of the upper limb in order to enhance an individual’s ability to execute tasks and to participate fully in life situations.
check out our latest blog posts regarding Reconstruction & Trauma
