Physiotherapy Management After ORIF in Proximal Humerus Fracture: A Case Report

Asti Damaningtyas; Totok Budi Santoso; Prihantoro Larasati

doi:10.24843/mifi.000001811

Authors

Asti Damaningtyas Professional Physiotherapy Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia Author
Totok Budi Santoso Professional Physiotherapy Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia Author
Prihantoro Larasati Dr. Soeharso Orthopaedic Hospital, Surakarta, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24843/mifi.000001811

Keywords:

proximal humerus fractures, internal fixation devices, physical therapy modalities, rehabilitation, range of motion, activities of daily living

Abstract

Background: Proximal humerus fractures are common upper-extremity injuries that often require surgical intervention such as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Postoperative complications frequently include pain, limited range of motion (ROM), decreased muscle strength, and impaired functional ability, which necessitate structured rehabilitation.

Objective: To describe the clinical outcomes of a physiotherapy program in a patient with proximal humerus fracture following ORIF.

Methods: This case report followed CARE guidelines and involved a 65-year-old female with a right proximal humerus fracture (Neer 2-part) post-ORIF. The physiotherapy intervention consisted of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), active and active-assisted range of motion exercises, and progressive resisted exercises targeting the shoulder muscles. The program was conducted over three sessions within three weeks. Outcomes were assessed using Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), goniometric ROM, Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire.

Results: Active shoulder ROM improved from 50–0–110° at baseline to 50–0–115° at the final session, while passive ROM increased from 50–0–150° to 50–0–155°. Muscle strength improved from grade 3− to grade 5. Functional ability showed substantial improvement, with DASH scores decreasing from 47 to 15.

Conclusion: A short-term physiotherapy program combining pain modulation and progressive exercise improved joint mobility, muscle strength, and functional outcomes in a patient following ORIF for proximal humerus fracture.