Shoulder dominance has no effect on function, quality of life after proximal humerus fracture
By Monica Jaramillo
Recently published data indicated there was no significant difference with regard to shoulder dominance in the functional outcome and quality of life perception observed in proximal humeral fractures.
Researchers retrospectively studied 179 patients with proximal humeral fractures (PHFs). Fractures were divided into two groups based on whether they occurred in the dominant or nondominant arm. Seventy-six fractures were treated surgically, and 103 were treated conservatively with 3-week immobilization with a sling and an assisted progressive rehabilitation program.
Each group was prospectively observed during a 2-year period. At the end of the 2-year follow-up, all patients underwent functional assessments using the Constant score, and quality life was assessed using SF-36. In addition, patients were asked if they were independent for activities of daily living (ADLs) in order to assess mortality and level of autonomy.
