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781-429-7700 (P)
781-429-7701 (F)
team@ortho.boston
Distal Humerus Fracture Rehab Protocol
Keys to a Successful Outcome
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Brace should be worn as instructed to allow the surgical elbow to heal accordingly.
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Absolutely no aggressive or forced rotation during the initial rehabilitation phases.
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Complying with non-weight bearing orders until at least six weeks post-op.
Phase | Brace/Sling | ROM | WB | Exercises |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Weeks 1-4 | Wear at all times for 1 week and then wear only when outside for 3 more weeks. | Passive flexion and ABD to 90°, ER as tolerated at 0° ABD, IR to as tolerated. | NWB | Cervical ROM exercises; elbow, wrist, hand ROM; Active elbow flexion/extension; shoulder shrugs and scapula retraction; wall walking or table slides for flexion and abduction (all to as tolerated). |
Weeks 4-6 | Discontinue the sling at week 4 but can be worn for comfort if desired. | As tolerated in all planes. No aggressive or forced passive ROM until full union of fracture | NWB | Begin no-load serratus exercises at 5-6 weeks; Begin limited range, no resisted active ER/IR with towel roll; sub maximal isometrics as tolerated. |
Weeks 6-9 | Not needed | As tolerated in all planes. | PWB | Begin posterior capsule stretches; begin UBE, below shoulder level; progressive scapular strengthening; begin rows with theraband; begin light band theraband resistance exercises in all planes. |
Weeks 9-12 | Not needed | Continue working towards FAROM | PWB | Increase resistance with theraband exercises; advance kinesthetic awareness exercise to multi-angle; CKC progression of UE muscles. |
Months 3-6 | Not needed | FAROM | WBAT | Advance strengthening for rotator cuff and rest of the UE; advance scapular exercises; no overhead lifting for 4-6 months post-op; sport-specific training. |
*May remove for hygiene and exercises
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