Injuries to the elbow
What can cause an elbow injury, what types of injuries can occur, and how to treat each one.
Elbow dislocation
Cause of injury
- Elbow dislocation usually occurs as a result of a fall on an outstretched arm and is clearly trauma related. It is often associated with damage to the ligaments that stabilize the joint and fracture of the bony elements.
- It is associated with severe pain, swelling and deformity of the elbow.
- In addition to physical examination, an X-ray should be taken in all such cases.
Treatments
- The elbow must be “put in place” by a specialist, and in some cases surgical intervention may be necessary.
- The elbow should be immobilized after the injury if there is no fracture for 1-3 weeks.
Book an appointment for a consultation
Book an appointment for a consultation to diagnose your problem. If possible, we will already have treatment in place and offer you several options for recovery!
Book an appointment
Fracture of the elbow, ligament damage
Cause of injury
- Both injuries are usually caused by a fall or impact. They are associated with severe, sharp, sudden onset of pain, swelling, deformity and restriction of movement.
Examination
- Physical examination and X-ray are necessary.
Treatments
- The fractured elbow may need to be immobilized for varying lengths of time depending on the type of fracture.
- A ligament injury must be fixed with a brace, which allows the elbow to move within certain limits.
- Mild cases of ligament injuries will heal on their own, physiotherapy and physical therapy can speed up the healing process.
Biceps Tendon Rupture
Cause of injury
- A complete or partial rupture of the biceps tendon can be caused by the biceps tensing during elbow extension, usually as a result of trauma, but can also be a result of steroid use, especially in bodybuilders.
- A visible bruising in the elbow appears, and in the case of a complete tear the biceps may contract and bulge at the top of the upper arm.
- Flexion and extension of the forearm is particularly painful and muscle strength is weakened.
Examination
- An MRI and ultrasound scan will help to make an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment
- In case of complete or extensive rupture, surgical treatment is needed.
- Recovery time is usually 4 months.
Triceps Tendon Rupture
Cause of injury
- A complete or partial rupture of the triceps tendon can be caused by the triceps tensing during elbow flexion, usually as a result of trauma, but can also be a result of steroid use, especially in bodybuilders.
- The posterior surface of the elbow hurts, and the posterior part of the upper arm may be deformed.
- Flexion and extension of the forearm is particularly painful and muscle strength is weakened.
Examination
- An MRI and ultrasound scan will help to make an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment
- In case of complete or extensive rupture, surgical treatment is needed.
- Recovery time is usually 4 months.
Couldn’t find a solution to your problem?
Contact us using the form below or continue reading our blog posts!
Golfer’s elbow
What can cause golfer’s elbow, what are the symptoms, how can it be diagnosed, and how do we treat it quickly and effectively at our center.
Tennis Elbow
What can cause tennis elbow, how can it be diagnosed, and how do we treat tennis elbow pain at our center.
