Elbow fractures can cause significant pain and discomfort, often limiting your ability to move your arm properly. Such injuries are common, particularly among individuals who experience falls, participate in sports, or suffer accidents.
Understanding elbow fracture treatment is essential for recovery and reducing long-term complications.
In this blog, we will help you grasp elbow fracture treatment options and when it is time to consult a medical professional, such as a general orthopedist in San Antonio, TX.
What is an Elbow Fracture?
An elbow fracture occurs when one of the three bones in your elbow joint — the humerus, radius, or ulna — is broken. This injury often results from trauma and is frequently experienced in:
- Falls directly onto the elbow
- Accidents during sports
- Vehicle collisions
- Impact injuries
If you notice swelling, tenderness, bruising, severe pain, or limited movement, you may have an elbow fracture. An elbow fracture can be of three types:
Radial Head Fracture
This is one of the most common elbow fractures and occurs in the smaller bone of the forearm near the elbow. It is often caused by falling onto an outstretched hand.
Olecranon Fracture
The olecranon is the pointed bone at the tip of your elbow. Fractures here usually happen due to direct trauma, such as hitting your elbow on a hard surface during a fall.
Distal Humerus Fracture
This type of fracture occurs in the lower end of the humerus. It is less common and often seen in elderly patients with weakened bones or younger individuals involved in high-impact injuries like car accidents.
How is an Elbow Fracture Diagnosed?
When you visit an orthopedic specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon in San Antonio, TX, the doctor will perform a detailed evaluation. The following steps are common during diagnostic visits:
- Physical Exam: The ortho doctor will check for signs of swelling, pain, and reduced range of movement.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays are used extensively to confirm the fracture and identify the type and location of the injury. Sometimes, CT scans or MRIs may also be ordered for complex fractures.
Elbow Fracture Treatment Options
Elbow fracture treatment may vary depending on the severity and type of fracture. Below are common elbow treatment options explained:
Immobilization
When you have a minor or non-displaced fracture in your elbow, immobilization is often the first step in treatment. This means keeping the elbow in a fixed position, so the bones can heal correctly without moving.
Your orthopedist may suggest using a cast, splint, or brace to protect the injured area. These devices hold the elbow steady and prevent further damage.
The period of immobilization usually lasts several weeks, depending on how severe the fracture is and how quickly your body heals. During this time, it’s essential to follow your ortho doctor’s instructions and avoid putting pressure on the injured arm.
Medications for Pain Management
Elbow fractures can cause significant pain, so managing discomfort is an important part of treatment. Sports medicine doctors often recommend over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). These medications help reduce pain and swelling associated with a fractured elbow.
For more severe pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist to ensure safe use of these medications.
Physical Therapy
After the initial healing phase, when the bone has started to mend, physical therapy becomes a key part of recovery. Physical therapy is a guided exercise program that helps you regain strength, flexibility, and movement in your elbow.
When your arm is immobilized for weeks, the muscles around the joint can become stiff and weak. A licensed physical therapist will work with you to perform specific exercises that gradually improve your range of motion and rebuild strength. This process is essential for restoring normal function to your arm.
It may take several weeks or months, depending on the severity of the fracture and your progress.
Surgery
In cases where the fracture is severe, displaced (the bones are out of alignment), or involves multiple broken pieces, surgery may be necessary to fix the injury.
During surgery, an orthopedic surgeon may use special tools, such as pins, screws, or plates, to hold the broken bones together while they heal. This process ensures the bones are correctly aligned and stable.
Advanced orthopedic centers, like The Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine in San Antonio, TX, often use minimally invasive techniques for these procedures. Minimally invasive surgery typically involves smaller incisions, which can lead to faster recovery times, less pain, and fewer complications.
After surgery, you’ll likely need follow-up appointments with your doctor and physical therapy to ensure proper healing and regain full use of your arm.
Elbow Fracture Treatment in San Antonio, TX
If you or a loved one has experienced an elbow fracture, do not delay getting the care you need. At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine in San Antonio, TX, our experienced team specializes in elbow fracture treatment, sports medicine, and general orthopedics.
We offer state-of-the-art orthopedic care through a combination of non-invasive and surgical options tailored to your unique needs.
Schedule your consultation today by calling (210) 692-7400 or filling out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
External:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22050-elbow-fractures
