Humeral head fracture (ADULT)

Patient Presents with Painful shoulder secondary to a fall (No hx dislocation)

Isolated humeral head tenderness on palpation

X-ray of shoulder demonstartes a fracture

Closed 1 part fracture

Closed simple 1 part non-displaced fracture to the humeral head involving either:

  • Anatomical neck
  • Surgical neck
  • Lesser tuberosity
  • Greater tuberosity

Place patient in a high arm single loop collar and cuff

Arrange NPC follow up for 1 week

Provide and discuss with patient with the Humeral Head advice leaflet 

Prescribe appropriate anaglesia 

All other injuries to the proximal humerus

  • 2 or 3 part humeral head fracture
  • Fracture dislocation
  • Displaced fracture
  • Axillary Nerve disruption
  • Open #
  • Other clinical concerns

Contact trauma on call 1222 for advice and treat as advised