Last month, we discussed tactics for preventing falls in the winter months. Whether this means you’re actively participating in a strength and conditioning program, or you buy one of the 10 best traction cleats for snow and ice (or both), it’s important to understand the risks associated with slippery conditions. One of the most common injuries that can result from a fall outside in the winter time (especially in the elderly1-4), is the Proximal Humerus Fracture.
Fractures of the proximal Humerus often happen as a result of falling. Falling incidents can be on an outstretched hand, a fall directly onto the shoulder, or even landing on the elbow. Forces are transmitted through the humerus and are more than the bone is able to withstand. The result is a broken upper arm, or Proximal humerus fracture. Other causes of proximal humerus fractures can be from a direct force trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident. It should be noted that overall, the incidence of proximal humerus fractures tends to rise during the winter months.3 This is likely due to slippery conditions and increased fall risk.
Below, you can see just a few examples of what a proximal humerus fracture might look like.
(Source: https://musculoskeletalkey.com/open-reduction-and-internal-fixation-of-proximal-humerus-fractures/)
Most proximal humerus fractures can be treated conservatively (non-operatively)2, but some require surgical intervention. Once the fracture has had a chance to heal, Physical therapy is essential to restore function to the shoulder, and quality of life to the patient. This is most effectively done by utilizing therapeutic exercise, education and mobilization of restricted joints.1
Be careful out there this winter! And if you do happen to suffer a fall or injury that requires physical therapy, know that you have a choice in Physical Therapy. Choose Active!
References
- Hodgson, S. (2006). Proximal humerus fracture rehabilitation. Clinical orthopedics and related research. 2006 Jan;442:131-8.
- Jo, M. J., & Gardner, M. J. (2012). Proximal humerus fractures. Current reviews in musculoskeletal medicine, 5(3), 192-8.
- Launonen A.P.,, Lepola, V., Saranko, A., Flinkkilä, T., Laitinen, M., & Mattila, V.M. (2015). Epidemiology of proximal humerus fractures. Archives of osteoporosis. 10:209. doi: 10.1007/s11657-015-0209-4. Epub 2015 Feb 13.
- Passaretti, D., Candela, V., Sessa,P., & Gumina, S. (2017). Epidemiology of proximal humeral fractures: a detailed survey of 711 patients in a metropolitan area. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 26(12):2117-2124. doi: 10.1016/j.jse.2017.05.029. Epub 2017 Jul 20