Overview

The goal of this study is to determine which initial method of immobilization for humeral shaft fractures in the emergency room maximizes patient comfort. The two methods of initial management for humeral shaft fractures are sarmiento bracing (pre-fabricated fracture brace) and coaptation splinting. In this study, the team will compare patient related outcomes and comfort for each method of initial management of humeral shaft fractures. Participant pain, narcotic usage, and function will be tracked over a 2 week period to see which method of immobilization is preferred.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Presenting to an emergency room or ICARE in the participating centers with an acute humeral shaft fracture
2. Age above 18 and skeletally mature
3. Isolated Injury
4. Treated non-operatively first 2 weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Open fractures
2. Poly trauma
3. Injuries deemed operative by attending surgeon
4. Patients undergoing treatment for malignancy
5. Prisoners