The humerus is the long bone in the upper arm and when broken it may be very painful. It needs very specialised care so that you can cope with the problems that may arise.
The break (fracture) may be treated by surgery or in a Collar ‘n’ Cuff (soft foam) sling and plaster. If treated in a sling and plaster then the following instructions apply:
- NO pillows under your elbow
- NO resting your arm on a chair or table
- NO lying flat in bed
- NO putting your injured arm in the sleeve of your clothes just allow the arm to hang whilst wearing the sling support
Your arm will be very swollen and bruised for the first couple of weeks.
To help reduce the swelling and stiffness in your wrist and hand, you must keep them moving by rotating your wrist and clenching your hand into a fist and then stretching your fingers out.
A fractured humerus can be very mobile and you may feel or hear the bone moving in the plaster.
This is not unusual, but by allowing your arm to hang loosely from the shoulder, you can prevent this from happening.
Be aware that your balance may be seriously affected. Take greater care when walking about and especially when coming downstairs.
Take your time.
This is a painful injury, so take your painkillers regularly as prescribed by the doctor and remember to let your arm hang loosely.
If you are worried about your arm or the plaster, or you just need some advice, please contact the Plaster Room on the site where you were originally seen and someone will assist you.
Fairfield General Hospital:
Telephone Number: 0161 778 2896
Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 5:00pm, Friday 8:30am to 1:00pm
Rochdale Infirmary:
Telephone Number: 01706 517320
Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 5:00pm, Fridays 1:30pm to 5:00pm
The Royal Oldham Hospital:
Telephone Numbers: 0161 778 5988 or 0161 627 8886
Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 5:00pm, Fridays 8:30am to 1:00pm
Keep your plaster dry - No baths! No showers!
To wash the injured side, lean forward and let your arm swing forward from the shoulder. DO NOT lift your arm up. Use baby wipes or a well wrung-out face cloth.
DO NOT wear jewellery such as rings and bracelets on the affected arm as your fingers may swell up.
Your plaster is heavy, but it is supposed to be and you must adapt yourself and your lifestyle to accommodate this. When you go to bed, sleep well-supported, but sitting upright, using pillows to support you.
Date of Review: October 2023
Date of Next Review: October 2025
Ref No: PI_SU_531 (BRO)