Jump to
How can you care for yourself when you have a humerus fracture?
- Put ice or a cold pack on your arm for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake). Put a thin cloth between the ice and your cast or splint. Keep the cast or splint dry. If you do not have a splint or cast, use a cloth between the ice and your skin.
- Follow the care instructions your doctor gives you. If you have a sling, do not take it off unless your doctor tells you to.
- Be safe with medicines. Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
- Your doctor may advise you to keep your arm next to your body. It may help to use a pillow to support your elbow while sitting.
- Follow instructions for moving your arm and doing exercises to keep your arm strong.
- Wiggle your fingers and wrist often to reduce swelling and stiffness.
Humerus fracture: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You are very sleepy and you have trouble waking up.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have increased or severe pain in your arm.
- Your hand is cool or pale or changes color.
- You have tingling, weakness, or numbness in your hand or fingers.
- Your cast or splint feels too tight.
- You cannot move your fingers.
- The skin under your cast or splint is burning or stinging.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
©2011-2025 Healthwise, Incorporated
The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.