What nerve can be damaged if you have a fracture of the shaft of the humerus?
The radial nerve is most likely to be damaged in humerus fractures that have a lateral displacement of the distal fracture segment, as the nerve is tethered to the bone and cannot withstand the forces applied to it as a result of the displacement.
How do you sleep with a humerus shaft fracture?
Lay flat. Though it may be uncomfortable, try sleeping, as much as possible, in a seated/upright position. Lying flat may allow the bone to move and bend, even in a cast.
Does fractured humerus need surgery?
Most fractures of the proximal humerus can be treated without surgery if the bone fragments are not shifted out of position (displaced). If the fragments are shifted out of position, surgery is often performed to allow earlier mobility.
What is a humeral shaft fracture?
Humeral shaft fractures are common fractures of the diaphysis of the humerus, which may be associated with radial nerve injury. Diagnosis is made with orthogonal radiographs of the humerus. Treatment can be nonoperative or operative depending on location of fracture, fracture morphology, and association with other ipsilateral injuries.
How common is a fracture of the humerus?
Fractures of the humerus shaft make up about 5 percent of all broken bones. It typically requires more force to fracture your humeral shaft than to break your wrist or collarbone. Falls are a common cause of humerus fractures. Sometimes they happen after higher energy injuries like a motor vehicle accident.
What is a mid-shaft humerus fracture?
A mid-shaft humerus fracture is a break in the middle of your humerus. Distal. Distal humerus fractures occur near your elbow. This type is usually part of a more complex elbow injury and sometimes involves loose bone fragments. What causes it?
What is a longitudinal fracture?
Longitudinal fractures are fractures that occur along (or nearly along) the axis of the bone. This is most often used in the context of a long-bone fracture although traditional classification of temporal bone fractures also used this term.