The Vatican City has reported Pope Francis sustained an injury to his right forearm following a fall at his residence on Thursday 16th January 2025.
However, he did not incur any fractures and proceeded with his scheduled activities for the day.
Photographs from the pope's meetings on Thursday morning depicted him utilizing a simple cloth sling, which was suspended from his neck to support his right arm.
This incident marks the second injury sustained by the pontiff within approximately six weeks, as he had previously bruised his face in a fall that occurred in December 2024.
According to a statement released by the Vatican, "This morning, due to a fall at the Santa Marta residence, Pope Francis suffered a contusion to his right forearm, without fractures. The arm was immobilized as a precautionary measure." The pope, who has presided over the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church since 2013, celebrated his 88th birthday in December and frequently relies on a cane or wheelchair for mobility due to persistent knee and back discomfort.
The previous fall experienced by Pope Francis occurred when he slipped while exiting his bed, resulting in a chin injury after colliding with his bedside table, as indicated by the Vatican at that time.