Proximal Humerus Fracture — / Greater Tuberosity Avulsion — Non-Operative

Dr. Grant Garcia MD (Proliance Surgeons) · Dr. Grant H. Garcia MD

Weight-Bearing

Sling per MD; monitor per MD instructions; wean per clinical progression

Key Restrictions

Fracture stability is variable — check specifications and precautions from MD; greater tuberosity avulsion included; pendulums begin 7-10 days post fracture; passive shoulder motion from day 7-10; AAROM ER limited to 40 deg until wk 3; isometrics not until wk 4; hyperextension AAROM not until wk 6

Timeline & Phases

Early Passive Motion (days 7-10), Early Passive Motion Phase 2 (days 10-21, AAROM begins, ER ≤40 deg), Phase I (wks 3-6, isometrics at wk 4, AAROM hyperextension at wk 6), Phase II (wks 6-8, active FF supine + standing with stick, pulleys with eccentric lowering), Phase III (wk 8+, resistive exercises + advanced stretching, scapular rotator strengthening)

Notes

Covers both proximal humerus fracture and greater tuberosity avulsion fracture; eccentric lowering with pulleys Phase II; pulleys with eccentric control emphasized; scapular rotators for proper scapulohumeral rhythm; humeral head depression strength emphasized (to avoid impingement); bilateral hanging stretches Phase III; TENS for pain control

Surgeon / Author

Dr. Grant H. Garcia MD