Arm fracture

The nature of the injury depends on the force of the traumatic impact, the position of the arm at the moment of injury, and the condition of the bone tissue.

The main causes of an arm fracture include:

• falling onto an outstretched hand;

• direct impact or injury during road traffic accidents;

• sports-related injuries during training or competitions;

• occupational and household injuries;

• reduced bone density, particularly in elderly patients.

In each of these cases, the risk of fracture increases when intense loading is combined with decreased bone strength, which requires timely diagnosis and appropriately selected treatment.

In traumatology, arm fractures are classified according to several clinically important criteria. This classification allows the physician to accurately assess the nature of the injury, choose the optimal treatment strategy, and predict the timeline for recovery of limb function.

By location of injury

Depending on which part of the upper limb is affected, the following types are distinguished:

• fractures of the humerus, which may limit movement in the shoulder and elbow joints;

• fractures of the forearm bones (radius and ulna), often affecting the ability to flex, extend, and rotate the arm;

• fractures of the wrist and hand, accompanied by impairment of fine motor skills and gripping function.

Each of these locations has its own characteristics in terms of course, treatment, and rehabilitation.

By nature of bone damage

Taking into account the condition of bone fragments and soft tissues, arm fractures are divided into:

• non-displaced fractures, in which bone fragments retain proper anatomical alignment;

• displaced fractures, which require closer monitoring or surgical intervention to restore bone anatomy;

• closed fractures, where the skin over the injury site remains intact;

• open fractures, involving damage to the skin and soft tissues, which increases the risk of infectious complications.

The type of fracture directly affects the treatment method, the duration of immobilization, and the scope of rehabilitation measures.

Even if the intensity of pain decreases over time, the presence of these symptoms warrants mandatory medical evaluation, as lack of treatment may lead to complications and impaired arm function.

Recovery after an arm fracture begins once stable bone healing is achieved and the cast or orthosis is removed. The duration of the rehabilitation period depends on the fracture location, its complexity, the length of immobilization, and the chosen treatment method.

The main goal of rehabilitation is to restore full range of motion, muscle strength, and functional use of the upper limb without pain or limitations. The recovery process is gradual and includes:

• progressive restoration of mobility in the affected joints, taking individual limitations into account;

• arm rehabilitation after fracture through therapeutic exercises and specially selected physical therapy programs;

• strengthening of the shoulder, forearm, and hand muscles to regain stability and endurance;

• gradual return to daily, professional, and physical activities without overloading the arm.

Following medical recommendations, maintaining regular exercise, and monitoring recovery progress help reduce the risk of complications, prevent joint stiffness, and ensure full restoration of arm function.