The elbow joint is made up of three bones – the humerus, ulna and the radius.  It bends and straightens like a hinge and it is also important for rotating your forearm, like the ability to turn your hands up.  The elbow is a complicated joint and elbow fractures can involve both of the forearm bones, as well as the humeru

A humerus fracture may be classified by the location of the humerus: the upper or proximal end, the shaft, or the lower distal.

Fractures of the humerus usually result from falls or direct traumas.

Common symptoms of humerus fracture

• Pain and stiffness

• Loss of shoulder/arm function

• Swelling and bruising.

Depending on the symptoms, Dr Siow will normally diagnose the fracture with an X-ray or a CT scan.

Treatment such as applying ice packs, pain relievers and being placed in a arm sling may help to ease the pain. However, a complicated humerus fracture may require surgery to realign the broken bone with implant plates, screws or rods to maintain proper alignment during healing.  The eventual goal of treatment for a distal humerus fracture is to regain full motion of the elbow, as it was prior to the injury.

If you do suspect that you may have a humerus fracture, seek prompt medical attention from us.