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

(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 of force generated, making them more susceptible to fractures due to overwhelmingly strong instant internal rotation force during arm wrestling. Bone strength is not infinite; even for the young and healthy, excessive force can still cause a fracture.

Dr. Chang suggested that people should act according to their capability during arm wrestling and avoid using excessive force or being locked in a prolonged stalemate. If you fall to a disadvantage, you should let your body move with the motion to reduce the twisting pressure on the arm, rather than holding out stubbornly to the end.

In addition, people can improve bone and muscle strength through proper weight training and exercise, but it must be done gradually to avoid sudden, overwhelming loads. If intense pain, arm deformity, or an inability to move occurs during an activity, one should seek medical examination immediately to seize the best time for treatment. Recreational activities should prioritize safety to avoid unnecessary injuries caused by momentary bravado. (Editor: Chang Ya-ching) 1150423

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