Wearing a Humeral Fracture Brace
What is it?
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Humeral Fracture Brace
This is a protective device worn on the upper arm, leaving your elbow free and allowing movement of your forearm and hand. It keeps the injured bone in place while it is healing.
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How do I put on the brace?
Get ready.
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Relax your arm and let it hang.
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Sprinkle talcum powder on the upper arm.
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Put on a clean stockinette (a special sock that opens on both ends), so it extends over the shoulder.
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Smooth out any wrinkles.
Apply the brace.
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Put the front section on the front of the upper arm. The cap of the brace should fit comfortably over the shoulder.
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Then put on the back section. The back section must overlap the front section.
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To get the best fit, ask someone to help you put on the brace.
Adjust the straps
• Tighten straps beginning with the strap closest to the elbow then tighten the upper strap.
• Keep equal pressure on both straps. The brace should be snug, but not so tight it feels uncomfortable.
• Once the two straps on the brace are snug, loop the long strap located at the top of the brace under the uninjured arm.
• Straps should be adjusted throughout the day to ensure the snug fit is properly maintained.
How do I take the brace off?
• In sitting, allow your arm to hang in a natural position.
• Loosen all straps and slide brace off arm.
• Remove the cotton stockinette.
When can I shower/bathe?
Once your doctor has given permission or instructed you to bathe or remove the stockinette, carefully follow the instructions below.
• Shower with the brace on.
• Once you have dried off and are seated, carefully follow “removing the brace” instructions to safely remove brace, dry it off, and change the stockinette.
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The removed stockinette can be washed in warm water with mild soap then air dried.
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The brace can also be washed with mild soap, rinsing with water until all soap is removed.
• Carefully towel dry your injured arm.
• Towel dry brace, removing all water.
• Put on fresh talcum powder and a clean stockinette.
• Reapply your brace following “Apply the brace” instructions above.
How often should I check my skin?
You should look at the skin under your brace and stockinette at least once a day to prevent sores.
• You will need someone to help you with this step.
• If a sore develops, tell your doctor.