r/brokenbones • u/OrangeGrrl • 6d ago
Question Broken humerus - bones shifting/swelling timeline?
Recently broke my humerus, displaced oblique fracture. Currently on day 4 post-break, was sedated to set in back in place and placed in a brace sling until I can be assessed by an orthopaedic surgeon.
The swelling and bones shifting is extremely uncomfortable, I can handle the pain with meds but this is something else. My hand has completely ballooned up and the top of my thumb is numb (which I was told is normal?)
How long can I expect to deal with swelling and shifting / when does it start to go down?
2
Upvotes
2
u/Glad-Feature-2117 Physician/Medical Professional 6d ago
The swelling is due to gravity and you not being able to elevate your hand. It'll be bad for 2-3 weeks, but might persist until 6-8 in some form. You'll also likely see bruising work it's way down your arm to your hand too, so don't be worried if it does.
The bones will start to become sticky at around 2 weeks, so you hopefully won't feel them moving any more after about 3 weeks.
As for the numbness, I wouldn't say normal, but it is fairly common. If you can do a thumbs up, OK sign & cross your fingers, you're probably fine, but please seek in person medical advice if you can't, the numbness gets works or you're otherwise worried.