proximal humerus fractures
Last reviewed 01/2018
Fractures of the proximal humerus usually result from a fall on an outstretched hand. They are most common after middle age in a humerus weakened by osteoporosis. In younger people, a similar fall more often causes the shoulder to be dislocated, but fractures do occur, often together with dislocation. In adolescents, the upper humeral epiphysis may be separated and non-accidental injury should be excluded.