Rehabilitation After Right Humerus Fracture: What You Need to Know - Orthopedics

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Rehabilitation after a right humerus fracture, especially one that involves complications such as a comminuted fracture and radial nerve palsy, is a critical process that requires careful planning and execution. Given your situation, where you had surgery to implant a plate for stabilization and are now experiencing difficulty in extending your arm six weeks post-operation, it’s essential to approach rehabilitation thoughtfully.


When to Start Rehabilitation
Typically, rehabilitation can begin as soon as the surgical site has stabilized and the physician has cleared you for movement. In your case, since it has been six weeks since your surgery, you should consult with your orthopedic surgeon or a rehabilitation specialist to determine if you can start physical therapy. Early mobilization is crucial to prevent stiffness and promote healing, but it must be done under medical supervision to avoid complications.


Finding the Right Rehabilitation Specialist
It is advisable to work with a physical therapist who specializes in orthopedic rehabilitation. They can provide a tailored program that considers your specific injury, surgical history, and current limitations. While some exercises can be done at home, professional guidance is essential to ensure that you are performing movements correctly and safely, especially given the complexity of your injury.


Rehabilitation Guidelines and Restrictions
During your rehabilitation, there are several key points to keep in mind:
1. Range of Motion Exercises: Initially, focus on gentle range of motion exercises. These will help maintain flexibility in your shoulder, elbow, and wrist. Avoid any movements that cause pain or discomfort.

2. Strengthening Exercises: As your range of motion improves, your therapist will introduce strengthening exercises. These should be gradual and monitored closely to avoid overexertion.

3. Avoiding Certain Movements: Be cautious with activities that involve heavy lifting or overhead motions, especially in the early stages of rehabilitation. Your therapist will guide you on what movements to avoid based on your recovery progress.

4. Pain Management: If you experience pain during rehabilitation, communicate this with your therapist. Pain is a signal that something may not be right, and adjustments may be needed.


Surgical Considerations for Plate Removal
Regarding the removal of the plate, this is typically considered if there are complications such as irritation, pain, or if the plate is causing issues with range of motion. The decision to remove the plate should be made in consultation with your orthopedic surgeon, who will evaluate the risks and benefits based on your specific situation.
The surgery to remove the plate does carry risks, including infection, nerve damage, and complications related to anesthesia. However, many patients undergo plate removal without significant issues and find relief from discomfort.


Future Athletic Activities
As for returning to activities such as throwing or playing sports, this will depend on your recovery progress and the advice of your healthcare team. Many athletes can return to their previous level of activity after a humerus fracture, but this often requires a comprehensive rehabilitation program and may take several months.
It’s important to set realistic goals and understand that while you may be able to return to sports, it might take time to regain full strength and function. Your therapist will help you develop a plan to gradually reintroduce throwing motions and other activities.


Conclusion
In summary, starting rehabilitation after a right humerus fracture is crucial for recovery. Consult with your orthopedic surgeon to get the green light for physical therapy, and work closely with a rehabilitation specialist to ensure a safe and effective recovery process. Pay attention to your body’s signals, and don’t rush the process; healing takes time, and with the right approach, you can work towards returning to your previous level of activity.