Proximal Humerus Fracture Recovery & Home Physiotherapy in London
recovery
Proximal Humerus Fracture Recovery & Home Physiotherapy
A proximal humerus fracture (upper arm bone break near the shoulder joint) can be extremely painful and often limits your ability to use the arm for daily activities. Even simple tasks like dressing, reaching overhead, or sleeping comfortably become difficult.
At Post Op Home Physio, our team of HCPC-registered physiotherapists provide tailored, evidence-based rehabilitation in the comfort of your own home. We specialise in helping patients safely recover mobility and strength after shoulder fractures, while reducing the risk of long-term stiffness.
SERVICES
What is a Proximal Humerus Fracture?
The humerus is the long bone of the upper arm. A fracture near its head (close to the shoulder joint) can occur from a fall, accident, or trauma. It is more common in older adults with osteoporosis, but also affects younger patients following high-energy injuries.
Treatment depends on the fracture type and stability:
Non-surgical management (conservative)
Using a sling to allow natural healing for stable or minimally displaced fractures.
Internal fixation
Plates, screws, or intramedullary nails are used to hold bone fragments together when the fracture is displaced or unstable.
Shoulder replacement
In severe cases with multiple fragments or poor bone quality, partial or reverse shoulder replacement may be required (covered separately on our Shoulder Replacement page).
Regardless of treatment type, rehabilitation is essential to restore function and avoid long-term complications such as frozen shoulder or weakness.
SERVICES
Why Physiotherapy is Essential
Without physiotherapy, patients recovering from a proximal humerus fracture often experience:
- Persistent stiffness and restricted range of motion
- Ongoing pain and weakness in the shoulder
- Difficulty regaining confidence in daily use of the arm
- Risk of compensatory movement patterns, leading to neck or back pain
Physiotherapy ensures safe, structured progression — helping you rebuild strength, mobility, and independence.
SERVICES
Benefits of Home Physiotherapy
Choosing home-based physiotherapy provides unique advantages after a shoulder fracture:
Convenience
No need to travel while wearing a sling or in pain.
Early support
Exercises introduced in your own environment help with daily activities such as dressing, washing, and reaching.
Personalised care
One-to-one sessions adapted to your home setup, furniture, and lifestyle.
Confidence building
Patients often progress faster when rehab is directly integrated into their everyday surroundings.
Team
Meet Our Specialist Physiotherapists
All sessions are delivered by HCPC-registered, CSP-accredited physiotherapists with specialist expertise in shoulder and upper limb rehabilitation. Our team regularly treat patients following humerus fractures across London, including boroughs such as Islington, Camden, Hackney, Barnet, and Kensington & Chelsea.
FAQs About Proximal Humerus Fracture Recovery
Usually 2–6 weeks, depending on fracture type and healing. Your surgeon will give exact guidance.
Gentle assisted movement often begins after 2 weeks, but this varies by case. Physiotherapy ensures movements are introduced safely.
Most patients recover excellent function, though some stiffness can remain. Early physiotherapy greatly improves outcomes.
Some surgeons recommend sleeping in a sling during the first few weeks for protection. We provide advice on comfortable sleeping positions.
Usually after 6–8 weeks once you can move your arm freely and control the wheel safely. Always confirm with your doctor.
Yes — even non-surgical cases risk stiffness and weakness without guided rehab.
Light office work may be possible at 6–8 weeks. Manual or overhead work often requires 3–6 months.
Most patients return to recreational activities after 6 months, with overhead or contact sports taking longer.
TESTIMONIALS
Patient Testimonials
Why Choose Us?
Why Choose Post Op Home Physio?
- Specialist expertise: Our physiotherapists are highly experienced in shoulder and fracture rehabilitation.
- Trusted reputation: Hundreds of 5-star reviews from patients across London.
- Evidence-based rehab: We follow the latest clinical guidelines for safe recovery.
- Personalised approach: Every programme is tailored to your home and daily routine.
Details
Practical Details
- Session length: 50–60 minutes
- Location: Home visits across all London boroughs
- Equipment: We bring resistance bands, pulleys, and supports where needed
- Programme: Gradual progression from pain relief to functional strengthening
- Booking: Sessions arranged flexibly to suit your recovery schedule
Insurers
Booking
Book Your Home Physiotherapy Session
If you’re recovering from a proximal humerus fracture, don’t delay starting rehabilitation. The sooner physiotherapy begins, the better your recovery.
Call us today or book online to arrange your first home session with one of our specialist physiotherapists in London.