![\"fracture-elbow\"](\"https:\/\/handsurgeonsnyc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/fracture-elbow.jpg\")
<\/p>\nFractures of the bones of the elbow\u2014the radius, ulna and the humerus\u2014include a broad range of combinations and severity. Falls while bicycling, skiing, snowboarding, BMX, skateboarding (full pipes more than street courses) and in-line skating put the elbow at risk when the outstretched arm is used to protect the athlete’s face or spine. Contact sports are culprits too. Fractures may be open or closed, displaced or nondisplaced. An injury that causes a broken bone may also damage muscles, ligamentous tissue, and nerves and arteries that surround the bones, necessitating prompt medical supervision.<\/p>\n
Elbow fractures may be identified as being either open or closed. In closed fractures, the broken bone will remain beneath the skin. With open fractures, a fragment of the bone will break through the surface of the skin.<\/p>\n
In displaced fractures, bones are separated into two or more misaligned pieces. These pieces may or may not maintain contact with each other. A nondisplaced fracture will mean that the pieces of broken bone have separated little and the fragments remain almost in place.<\/p>\n
Some examples include:<\/p>\n
The elbow is a hinge joint that allows you to move your forearm. A fracture may occur in one or more of the bones, including the humerus, the radius, and ulna, resulting in pain and impaired movement in the region. Fractures in these areas tend to be painful upon trauma and easily distinguishable due to deformity and swelling.<\/p>\n
Some of the most commonly reported symptoms for elbow fractures include:<\/p>\n
X-rays provide images of bony structures, which are useful in diagnosing elbow fractures. The upper arm, forearm, wrist, and hand may all benefit from this imaging. <\/p>\n
Depending on the patient\u2019s symptoms, the surgeon may also order an MRI to visualize ligamentous injuries or a CT scan for better bony analysis.<\/p>\n
Treatments range from sling immobilization to complex reconstructive surgery of the bones and ligaments. Subsequent physical therapy is the norm. Immediate treatment options include applying ice to the area to reduce pain and swelling and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories to relieve pain. A splint may also be beneficial in providing immediate pain relief.<\/p>\n
If the fracture is not displaced, the fracture may be treated with a splint or sling to immobilize the elbow to promote healing. Periodic X-rays may be ordered during this process to try to ensure the bone has not shifted. <\/p>\n
Splints are generally worn for a short time when gentle motion is reintroduced. If the fracture shifts during this time, surgical intervention may be required. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories may also be prescribed during this time.<\/p>\n
Surgical intervention is usually required for olecranon and other fractures in cases of open or displaced fractures. Surgery typically involves realigning the bones and reassembling broken pieces into the best possible position. <\/p>\n
Open fractures are scheduled for surgery quickly to reduce infection risk. Patients with this type of fracture will also be administered antibiotics. <\/p>\n
Surgical reduction of elbow fractures is standard in fractures that do not respond to conservative treatment, and when conservative management is known to yield inferior outcomes.<\/p>\n
It is difficult to prevent an elbow fracture as it is an acute injury that occurs due to a forceful blow or strike.\u00a0 The use of proper, well-fitted safety gear is vital to protecting the body during athletic activities.<\/p>\n
Athletes may protect themselves from possible elbow fractures with the following:<\/p>\n
Many patients will experience moderate pain following their surgery, which will benefit from icing, elevation, prescription, and non-prescription pain medications. Regardless of whether or not the required treatment is surgical, the best possible recovery from elbow fractures requires supervised physical therapy.<\/p>\n