A proximal humerus fracture significantly impacts arm and shoulder movement; Rehabilitation exercises are vital for recovery‚ improving mobility‚ strength‚ and functional ability‚ and restoring daily activity participation.

1.1. Understanding the Proximal Humerus Fracture

A proximal humerus fracture occurs when the upper portion of the humerus bone‚ near the shoulder joint‚ breaks. It is a common injury‚ often caused by falls or trauma‚ and can range from non-displaced to complex‚ multi-fragment fractures. Symptoms include severe pain‚ swelling‚ and limited arm mobility. Understanding the fracture type and severity is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan‚ which may involve immobilization‚ surgery‚ or rehabilitation. Accurate diagnosis through imaging helps guide appropriate management strategies to restore function and mobility.

1.2. The Role of Exercise in Recovery

Exercise plays a critical role in recovery from a proximal humerus fracture‚ preventing stiffness and promoting healing. Early range-of-motion exercises help restore mobility‚ while strengthening exercises improve muscle function and stability. Gradual progression ensures proper alignment and avoids complications. Consistent exercise enhances functional recovery‚ enabling patients to return to daily activities and pre-injury levels. It also reduces the risk of long-term disability and supports overall shoulder health. Adherence to a structured exercise program is essential for optimal outcomes and full recovery.

Phase 1: Early Protection and Pain Management (0-2 Weeks)

Phase 1 focuses on immobilization and pain management during the first two weeks. Sling use and early passive exercises protect the fracture site‚ minimizing discomfort and promoting healing.

2.1. Immediate Post-Injury Care

Immediate post-injury care involves immobilization and pain management. A sling is used to protect the fracture‚ while ice and prescribed medications control pain and inflammation. Gentle monitoring ensures proper alignment and prevents complications. Early passive exercises for wrist‚ elbow‚ and hand are introduced to maintain mobility without stressing the fracture site. This phase prioritizes comfort and fracture stabilization‚ laying the foundation for successful recovery and future mobility.

2.2. Sling Use and Immobilization

The sling is essential for immobilizing the arm after a proximal humerus fracture‚ protecting the injury and promoting healing. It should be worn at all times‚ except during exercises or personal hygiene‚ for 6 weeks. Proper use prevents excessive movement‚ reducing pain and the risk of complications. Patients are advised to avoid lifting the elbow above shoulder height to minimize discomfort. Immobilization helps maintain fracture alignment‚ ensuring optimal recovery and preparing the shoulder for early range-of-motion exercises in the next phase.

2.3. Early Passive Range of Motion (PROM) Exercises

Early passive range of motion exercises are crucial to prevent stiffness and promote healing. These gentle‚ assisted movements are performed without active muscle engagement‚ focusing on shoulder rotations‚ elbow‚ wrist‚ and hand mobility. Exercises should be done 4-5 times daily‚ within a pain-free range‚ to maintain joint mobility and prevent adhesion formation. Patients should continue these exercises while wearing the sling‚ except during activity. Consistency is key to restoring flexibility and preparing the shoulder for gradual strengthening in later phases.

Phase 2: Early Motion Exercises (2-6 Weeks)

This phase focuses on promoting shoulder mobility through pendulum exercises‚ gentle wrist‚ elbow‚ and hand movements‚ and early strengthening to prepare for progressive resistance in later stages.

3.1. Pendulum Exercises for Shoulder Mobility

Pendulum exercises are a cornerstone of early shoulder mobility during recovery from a proximal humerus fracture. Performed by bending at the waist and allowing the arm to swing gently like a pendulum‚ these exercises promote joint movement without stressing the fracture site. They are typically done 3-4 times daily‚ focusing on small‚ controlled motions to prevent stiffness and improve circulation. This passive approach relies on gravity to enhance range of motion‚ making it an ideal starting point for patients transitioning from immobilization to active recovery.

3.2. Wrist‚ Elbow‚ and Hand Exercises

Wrist‚ elbow‚ and hand exercises are essential during the early motion phase of recovery from a proximal humerus fracture. These exercises focus on maintaining mobility and strength in the unaffected joints while the fracture heals. Activities include wrist rotations‚ elbow flexion/extension‚ and grip strengthening. Patients are encouraged to perform these exercises 4-5 times daily‚ with 10 repetitions per exercise. As mobility improves‚ resistance can be gradually added using light weights or resistance bands to enhance strength and functional recovery.

3.3. Gentle Strengthening Exercises

Gentle strengthening exercises are introduced to gradually restore shoulder and arm strength without overloading the healing fracture. These exercises include resistive movements like standing forward press and Theraband-resisted flexion‚ internal rotation‚ and abduction. Patients perform these exercises while wearing a sling to protect the fracture site. Resistance levels are slowly increased as strength improves‚ focusing on controlled movements to avoid pain or discomfort. Progression to light resistance training is encouraged to enhance functional recovery and prepare for advanced exercises in later phases.

Phase 3: Strengthening and Progressive Resistance (6-12 Weeks)

This phase introduces resistive band exercises‚ isometric movements‚ and scapular stabilization to enhance strength and stability. Light resistance training is gradually incorporated to promote functional recovery.

4.1. Resistive Band Exercises

Resistive band exercises are introduced to strengthen the shoulder muscles. These include flexion‚ internal rotation‚ external rotation‚ and abduction movements. The resistance level is gradually increased as strength improves. Patients perform 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions daily. These exercises target the deltoid‚ rotator cuff‚ and scapular stabilizers‚ enhancing functional mobility. Progression is based on pain tolerance and strength gains. Proper form is emphasized to avoid overexertion or injury. Supervision by a physical therapist is recommended to ensure safe and effective execution of these exercises.

4.2. Isometric and Scapular Stabilization Exercises

Isometric exercises‚ such as shoulder blade squeezes and wall slides‚ strengthen the shoulder muscles without joint movement. Scapular stabilization exercises focus on improving posture and reducing pain. These exercises are low-impact‚ making them ideal for early stages of recovery. They help restore muscle balance and prevent atrophy. Patients perform 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions daily. Progression is based on pain tolerance and strength gains‚ ensuring a safe and effective recovery process. A physical therapist often guides these exercises to optimize results and minimize complications.

4.3. Progression to Light Resistance Training

Light resistance training begins around 6-12 weeks post-injury‚ focusing on strengthening shoulder muscles with controlled movements. Exercises include elastic band shoulder rotations‚ lateral raises‚ and light dumbbell work. These activities improve strength and endurance without overloading the shoulder joint. Patients perform 3 sets of 8-12 repetitions‚ gradually increasing resistance as pain allows. A physical therapist monitors progress‚ ensuring proper form and pain-free execution. This phase prepares the shoulder for functional activities and supports long-term recovery goals‚ enhancing overall mobility and stability.

Phase 4: Advanced Strengthening and Functional Activities (3-6 Months)

This phase focuses on restoring pre-injury function through dynamic movements‚ functional tasks‚ and high-level strengthening exercises‚ integrating cardiovascular activities to enhance endurance and mobility for daily activities.

5.1. High-Level Strengthening Exercises

Advanced strengthening exercises focus on dynamic movements and resistance training to restore pre-injury strength and function. Incorporating resistive bands‚ rowing motions‚ and overhead presses enhances shoulder stability. Progression to light weights or resistance bands for flexion‚ abduction‚ and internal/external rotation is key. These exercises target the deltoid‚ rotator cuff‚ and scapular muscles‚ improving power and endurance. The goal is to integrate these exercises into daily activities‚ ensuring full functional recovery and the ability to perform tasks without limitation.

5.2. Functional Activities and Daily Movement Integration

As strength improves‚ patients progress to functional activities that mimic daily tasks‚ such as light cooking or carrying groceries. These exercises focus on restoring normal movement patterns and independence. Activities are tailored to the individual’s lifestyle‚ ensuring a smooth transition to pre-injury routines. Gradual integration of the injured arm into daily tasks is emphasized‚ with the unaffected arm assisting as needed. The goal is to achieve seamless reintegration of the shoulder into everyday activities‚ enhancing overall functional recovery and quality of life.

5.3. Cardiovascular Exercises for Full Recovery

Cardiovascular exercises‚ such as swimming‚ cycling‚ or using a treadmill‚ are introduced to enhance overall fitness without stressing the shoulder. These activities promote blood circulation‚ aiding in fracture healing and maintaining physical conditioning. Low-impact aerobic exercises are recommended‚ as they minimize strain on the healing humerus. Patients are encouraged to perform these exercises 2-3 times weekly‚ gradually increasing duration and intensity under medical guidance. This phase ensures comprehensive recovery‚ preparing the individual for unrestricted daily and recreational activities.

Rehabilitation Protocol Considerations

Rehabilitation protocols emphasize pain management‚ avoiding heavy lifting‚ and proper sling progression to support fracture healing and prevent complications. Consistency in exercises ensures optimal recovery outcomes.

6.1. Pain Management Strategies

Pain management is crucial for effective rehabilitation. Techniques include ice therapy‚ analgesics‚ and gentle exercises to reduce discomfort. Modalities like electrical stimulation may enhance recovery. Consistent pain control enables better participation in exercises‚ promoting healing and function. Avoiding overexertion prevents further injury‚ ensuring a balanced approach to recovery.

6.2. Avoiding Heavy Lifting and Overexertion

Avoiding heavy lifting and overexertion is essential during recovery from a proximal humerus fracture. Lifting heavy objects or putting weight on the affected arm can disrupt the healing process and lead to further injury. Patients should avoid carrying heavy loads and use assistive devices or seek help for tasks requiring heavy lifting. This precaution ensures proper fracture healing and prevents complications. Overexertion can delay recovery and reduce the effectiveness of rehabilitation exercises‚ emphasizing the need for careful activity modification during the healing phase.

6.3. Sling Progression and Weaning

Progression and weaning from the sling are critical steps in the rehabilitation process. Initially‚ the sling is worn full-time to protect the fracture and reduce discomfort. As healing progresses‚ typically around 6 weeks‚ patients gradually reduce sling use‚ starting with short periods without it during exercises. Complete weaning occurs when pain subsides and strength improves‚ allowing for unsupported arm movement. This transition ensures proper healing and prevents reliance on the sling‚ promoting a smooth return to normal shoulder function and mobility.

Achieving full range of motion‚ strength‚ and pre-injury function are key recovery goals. Consistent exercise adherence ensures optimal outcomes and long-term independence in daily and recreational activities.

7.1. Achieving Full Range of Motion

Achieving full range of motion is a critical long-term goal after a proximal humerus fracture. Early passive exercises‚ such as pendulum swings and gentle stretches‚ help prevent stiffness and promote mobility. Progressing to active exercises‚ like overhead pulleys and wall slides‚ gradually restores shoulder flexibility. Consistency in performing these exercises ensures optimal recovery. Patients should focus on pain-free movements initially‚ gradually increasing range as healing progresses. Full range of motion is essential for regaining normal shoulder function and enabling participation in daily and recreational activities without limitation.

7.2. Returning to Pre-Injury Activities

Returning to pre-injury activities is a key milestone in recovery‚ typically achievable within 3-6 months. Gradual progression from controlled exercises to functional movements is essential. Patients are encouraged to resume light activities‚ such as gentle lifting or overhead motions‚ under medical guidance. Avoiding heavy lifting or high-impact tasks until full strength and stability are restored is crucial. Consistency in rehabilitation ensures a smooth transition back to daily and recreational activities‚ allowing patients to regain independence and confidence in their shoulder function.

7.3. Importance of Consistent Exercise Adherence

Consistent exercise adherence is crucial for optimal recovery from proximal humerus fractures. Regular rehabilitation routines help maintain joint mobility‚ prevent stiffness‚ and promote proper healing. Over time‚ consistent efforts enhance strength and restore functional abilities‚ enabling patients to resume daily activities and pre-injury functions successfully. Adherence to prescribed exercises ensures sustained progress‚ minimizes the risk of complications‚ and supports long-term recovery goals effectively.