Elbow Fracture
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Overview of Elbow Fractures or Breaks
An elbow fracture may result from a fall, a direct impact to the elbow, or a twisting injury to the arm. It is pretty common for sprains, strains or even dislocations to happen in addition to the fracture.
Image of man with elbow fracture.
Signs and Symptoms of an Elbow Fracture
Pain, swelling, bruising, tightness and stiffness in and around the elbow may be signs of a possible fracture. Sometimes a loud snap or pop at the time an elbow fracture occurs may be heard. A grinding or catching sensation at the elbow may also be felt. There may be numbness or weakness in the arm, wrist, and hand. If you experience sudden numbness and weakness in your forearm or hand after an elbow fracture, it could indicate nerve compression. To rule out an elbow fracture, X-rays are used to confirm if a fracture is present and if the bones are out of place. In rare occurrences, a CT (Computed Tomography) scan might be needed to get further detail.
Elbow Fracture or Break
Click to Learn about Radial Head Fractures.
Types of Elbow Fractures
There are 3 types of bone fractures:
- Type I. is a “nondisplaced” fracture, where the bone has a break, but is still in its normal anatomic position.
- Type II is a fracture where a fragment of bone is shifted from its normal anatomical position.
- Type III is the most serious type of fracture, with multiple breaks of the bone.
Type I and II fractures usually are treated without surgery, but Type III fractures usually require surgery. Fractures can take two to eight weeks or more to heal. To learn more about a fracture vs break, go to this ARTICLE.
JOI Rehab Treats Elbow Pain With Physical Therapy
JOI Rehab offers occupational therapy for elbow pain. There are different treatments for the various sources of elbow pain. Joint mobilization, which is a hands-on technique to improve mobility of the joints, is a common way in which elbow pain is treated.
Book an Appointment with The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is another option to make it more convenient to make new patient appointments with less phone hold times. Follow the link below to select your JOI MD and schedule online.
New to JOI, you can now schedule your follow up appointments and cancel appointments on the JOI Portal.
To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.