Humerus (Bone): Anatomy, Location & Function

Overview

• The humerus is the only bone in your upper arm, extending from the shoulder to the elbow.
• It is one of the longest bones in the body.
• Supports important muscles, tendons, ligaments, and parts of the circulatory system.
• Vulnerable to fractures, especially if weakened by osteoporosis.

Function

• Facilitates arm movement, flexion, and rotation.
• Holds 13 muscles in place.
• Stabilizes the arm, including the elbow and hand.

Anatomy

Structure

• Proximal Aspect: Connects to the shoulder joint; includes the head, greater and lesser tuberosity, intertubercular sulcus.
• Shaft: Middle portion that shapes the arm; includes deltoid tuberosity and radial groove.
• Distal Aspect: Forms the top of the elbow joint; includes supracondylar ridges, epicondyles, trochlea, capitulum, coronoid, radial, and olecranon fossae.

Size

• Largest bone in the body after leg bones.
• Typically around a foot long in adults.

Conditions and Disorders

Common Issues

• Fractures due to trauma or sports injuries.
• Osteoporosis, increasing fracture risk, especially in females and those over 50.
• Nerve and muscle damage:
  • Rotator cuff injuries
  • Dislocated shoulders
  • Radial nerve damage

Symptoms of Fracture

• Pain, swelling, tenderness, inability to move, bruising, deformity.

Diagnostic Tests

• Bone density tests (DEXA/DXA scan) for measuring bone strength.
• Imaging tests for fractures: X-rays, MRI, CT scan.

Treatments

• Fractures: Immobilization, possible surgery for alignment.
• Osteoporosis: Vitamin/mineral supplements, exercise, medications.
• Rotator Cuff/Shoulder Dislocation: Sling for dislocations, surgery for rotator cuff injuries.

Care and Prevention

• Maintain bone health through diet, exercise, and regular checkups.
• Safety measures: wear seatbelts, use protective sports gear, avoid trip hazards.
• Discuss bone density scans with healthcare providers if at risk for osteoporosis.

Cleveland Clinic Services

• Offers primary care and specialized bone health management.
• Provides lifelong medical care and preventive screenings.