What causes arm soreness after surgery for a humerus fracture?
Sep 29, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, the main causes of arm soreness after surgery for humerus fractures include muscle stiffness due to postoperative immobilization, improper rehabilitation exercises, postoperative wound infection, traumatic arthritis, and nerve injury during the recovery period. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintain wound cleanliness after surgery to prevent infection, and carry out rehabilitation exercises as directed by your doctor.
Generally, the main causes of arm soreness after surgery for humerus fracture include muscle stiffness due to postoperative immobilization, improper rehabilitation exercises, postoperative wound infection, traumatic arthritis, and the recovery phase of nerve injury. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific explanations are as follows:
1. Muscle Stiffness Due to Postoperative Immobilization
Long-term immobilization of the arm after fracture surgery reduces muscle activity, slowing blood circulation and causing muscle fiber adhesions, which leads to soreness. Gentle rehabilitation exercises should be gradually introduced, and warm towels can be used to apply heat to the arm to improve blood flow. Avoid sudden strenuous movements.
2. Improper Rehabilitation Exercises
Excessive exercise intensity or incorrect movements during rehabilitation may strain tissues around the fracture site, increasing muscle load and resulting in soreness. Adjust the intensity of exercise, follow medical advice when designing a training program, and pause exercise if soreness becomes significant. Resume gradually once symptoms subside.
3. Postoperative Wound Infection
Poor wound care after surgery may allow bacterial invasion and lead to infection. Inflammatory stimulation of surrounding tissues causes arm soreness, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and warmth at the wound site. Under medical guidance, medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, amoxicillin capsules, or levofloxacin tablets may be taken. Additionally, maintain proper wound cleanliness and change dressings regularly.
4. Traumatic Arthritis
Fractures that involve joint surfaces can lead to cartilage wear after surgery. Increased joint friction during movement results in soreness, often accompanied by limited joint mobility. Under medical supervision, medications such as celecoxib capsules, glucosamine hydrochloride capsules, or diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets may be used. Avoid excessive loading on the joint; in some cases, arthroscopic joint debridement may be necessary.
5. Recovery Phase of Nerve Injury
Nerve damage may occur along with the fracture. During the recovery period, as nerve conduction function gradually returns, symptoms such as arm soreness and numbness may appear. Under medical guidance, medications such as mecobalamin tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, and vitamin B6 tablets may be taken. Acupuncture and physical therapy can also aid recovery, and pressure on the injured area should be avoided.
In daily life, keep the surgical wound clean to prevent infection; perform rehabilitation exercises as prescribed, avoiding overexertion; keep the arm warm to avoid cold exposure; schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor fracture healing and adjust treatment plans accordingly; and maintain a diet rich in protein and calcium to support recovery.
