Elbow Fracture

Causes

An elbow fracture is caused by trauma from:

• Falling directly on the elbow
• A direct blow to the elbow
• Falling on an outstretched arm
• A motor vehicle accident

Risk Factors

The risk of an elbow fracture is higher in those who:

• Have a health problem that may result in falls, such as weak muscles
• Play some sports, such as football, hockey, wrestling, or gymnastics

Symptoms

Problems may be:

• Pain that is worse with movement
• Swelling and bruising
• Problems moving the arm
• Numbness in the fingers, hand, or arm
• A change in the way the elbow looks

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms, past health, and how the injury happened.

Pictures of the elbow will be taken. This can be done with:

• X-rays
• CT scan

Treatment

It can take 8 to 10 weeks to heal. The goal of treatment is to help the bones heal properly to prevent long term problems.

Putting Bones Back in Place

Some fractures may cause pieces of bone to come apart. The pieces of bone will need to be put back into place so it will heal properly. The doctor may do this through either of the following:

• Carefully moving the bones and using tension to align them. Anesthesia will be given help to manage pain.
• Surgery to reconnect bone sections with pins, screws, plates, or a rod. These devices will also hold the bone in place as it heals.

Support

Support for all fractures can include:

• Medicine to ease pain and swelling
• A splint, brace, or cast to support the bones as they heal
• Exercises to help with strength, flexibility, and range of motion

Some fractures can damage the growth plate in children. Follow up tests will be done to make sure the bone is growing as it should.

Prevention

Most fractures are due to accidents. Healthy muscles may help to prevent more severe injuries.