Hidden Risks in Arm Wrestling: Doctor Warns "Twisting Force" Can Cause Humeral Fractures

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A 29-year-old man suffered a spiral fracture of his humerus from arm wrestling. A doctor warns that the intense twisting torque can easily break bones, especially in young people with long arms, urging caution.

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A 29-year-old man suffered a spiral fracture of his humerus from arm wrestling. A doctor warns that the intense twisting torque can easily break bones, especially in young people with long arms, urging caution.

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Source: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/ahel/202604230157.aspx | Date: Date unavailable

Central News Agency (CNA Reporter Lee Hsien-feng, Hualien County, 23rd) A 29-year-old man from Hualien engaged in an impromptu arm wrestling match with a friend. Unexpectedly, under fierce resistance, a sudden severe pain shot through his upper arm, and he immediately lost support strength. Medical examination revealed a spiral fracture of the right humerus. Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital reminds the public not to overexert themselves to prevent joy from turning into tragedy. Chang Chia-ming, an orthopedic surgeon at Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, explained that fractures from arm wrestling are not uncommon. During an arm wrestling match, both arms are crossed in opposition, and the shoulder undergoes an internal rotation. The forearm acts as a lever, concentrating force at the distal humerus and creating an intense rotational twisting force. If the force exceeds the bone's strength limit, it can cause a spiral fracture. This type of fracture is not from an external impact but from twisting, acting as if the bone is being wrung out. Dr. Chang reminded that the important radial nerve, which is responsible for straightening the wrist and fingers, passes near the humerus. If the fracturing force affects the nerve, it could lead to nerve damage such as "wrist drop," and in severe cases, even affect daily living functions. Fortunately, this patient had a simple fracture that did not affect his nerve functions. Regarding treatment, the medical team opted for surgery. They approached from the posterior side, performing fracture reduction while carefully avoiding the nerve, and stabilized the bone with a steel plate to assist in steady healing. With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, most patients can recover their normal daily lives and mobility. Dr. Chang pointed out that this type of fracture is common among young people, especially those with longer arms, slender limbs, and a tall, thin physique. From a biomechanical perspective, the longer the arm, the greater the moment o

Hidden Risks in Arm Wrestling: Doctor Warns "Twisting Force" Can Cause Humeral Fractures

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