The Vatican announced on Thursday that Pope Francis injured his right forearm after a fall at his residence, but he did not suffer any fractures.

“This morning, Pope Francis experienced a fall at the Santa Marta residence, resulting in a contusion on his right forearm without fractures. The arm has been immobilized as a precaution,” the statement read.

JOINTEARN reports that the Pope, who has led the Catholic Church’s 1.4 billion members since 2013, turned 88 in December. He frequently uses a cane or wheelchair due to knee and back pain.

In recent years, the Pope has dealt with influenza and related issues several times. He underwent surgery in 2021 for diverticulitis and in 2023 to repair a hernia.

Despite these health challenges, the Pope dismissed concerns about his health in an autobiography published on Tuesday, ruling out resignation, unlike his predecessor Benedict XVI.

“I am well. The Church is governed using the head and the heart, not the legs,” he stated.