Elbow Fracture

Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Elbow Fractures

An elbow fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that form the elbow joint, including the humerus in the upper arm and the radius and ulna in the forearm. These injuries can range from small cracks to complex breaks that involve the joint surface.

Elbow fractures are most often caused by a fall onto the elbow or an outstretched arm, by direct trauma such as a blow to the elbow, or by sports and accident injuries. Symptoms typically include sudden pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty moving or straightening the arm, and sometimes a visible deformity or feeling of instability in the joint.

Several specific fracture patterns can occur around the elbow, including radial head fractures, olecranon fractures, condyle fractures of the humerus, coronoid process fractures, and supracondylar fractures which are more common in children. While the exact type may vary, the overall symptoms and treatment principles are similar.

Diagnosis is made with a physical examination and imaging such as X-rays or CT scans to determine the location and severity of the break. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Stable fractures that are well aligned may be treated with immobilization using a splint, cast, or brace. More complex or displaced fractures may require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones with plates, screws, or pins. After the bone begins to heal, physical therapy is usually recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and motion.

Recovery time varies depending on the fracture, but most people need several weeks to months before regaining full elbow function. With prompt treatment and proper rehabilitation, most elbow fractures heal well, although some patients may experience stiffness or, in severe cases, an increased risk of arthritis in the joint over time.