Can You Still Move Your Elbow With a Fracture?

orthopedic Glen Rock, NJ

Elbow fractures can happen to anyone at any age. It consists of a fracture at the tip of the elbow. Recognizing and treating an elbow fracture as soon as possible can reduce the risk of further complications along the line. It is advised to seek professional medical attention when a fractured bone occurs. An orthopedic in Glen Rock, NJ can then carry out treatment. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we can treat all types of broken bones and get you back to doing the things you love. 

Elbow Overview– Orthopedic Glen Rock, NJ

The elbow is a complex joint formed by three different bones: the humerus, the radius, and the ulna. The humerus bone is located in your upper arm and runs from the shoulder to the elbow. The radius and ulna bones in the forearm run down to the wrist from the elbow. Ligaments, tendons, and muscles allow your elbow joint to have mobility and maintain stability. The elbow can bend, extend, and rotate, but injuries like dislocation and fractures can still occur.

Causes of a Fractured Elbow

Elbow injuries can occur from anything like athletic injuries to a traumatic event. Some more specific events that result in elbow fractures include the following:

  • Falling backward and attempting to brace the fall with an outstretched arm
  • High-energy trauma, such as a collision
  • A direct hit to the elbow, such as falling off a skateboard or bicycle
  • Any other direct injury to the elbow, wrist, hand, or shoulder can damage the elbow.

How to Prevent a Fractured Elbow: Orthopedic Glen Rock, NJ

Traumatic falls, sports injuries, and motor vehicle accidents can cause an elbow fracture. To prevent elbow injury accidents, follow these tips:

  • Drive safely and wear your seatbelt while in the car.
  • Don’t drive if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Place children in the proper child restraint devices.
  • Don’t hang your arm out the window of a car.
  • Move items and wipe up spills that may cause you to trip and fall.
  • Keep walkways and driveways free of snow and ice.
  • Don’t exercise or participate in a sport if you are overly tired.
  • Wear protective gear while playing sports.
  • Stop continuing any actions that cause elbow pain.

Symptoms of a Fractured Elbow

An elbow fracture or another elbow injury can bring up the following symptoms that need attention from an orthopedic in Glen Rock, NJ:

  • Swelling of the elbow and surrounding area
  • Deformity of the elbow
  • Discoloration, such as redness or bruising
  • Difficulty moving the elbow in any direction
  • Numbness in the elbow, hands, or fingers
  • A cut or open wound
  • Severe pain in the elbow
  • A “tight sensation” in the elbow or forearm

What to Do if You Have Fractured Your Elbow

If you think you have fractured your elbow, seek immediate medical attention. Follow these tips while you are waiting for assistance:

  • If there is an open wound, clean it, cover it with a bandage, and apply firm pressure.
  • Apply a cool compress to the swollen area.
  • Immobilize the fracture as much as possible.
  • Do not attempt to straighten the elbow, push the bone back into place, or adjust the arm.

Fractured Elbow Diagnosis

To properly diagnose a fractured elbow, the following steps will be done:

  • Questions about your medical history and symptoms of your injury
  • A physical examination of your elbow and body to check no other body parts are affected
  • X-rays or MRI imaging tests to detect details of the broken bones
  • Laboratory tests if you are taking specific medication before operation

Fractured Elbow Treatment

Our orthopedic in Glen Rock, NJ can treat a fractured elbow. Your elbow can still move after being fractured, so a splint or cast is applied to restrict movement. Elevating, applying ice, and taking pain medication to decrease pain levels are recommended. In more severe cases, treatment can include surgery. An operation can repair bones, nerves, and blood vessels.

Contact Our Office: Orthopedic Glen Rock, NJ

Fractured elbows can cause severe pain and set you back from daily tasks. It is essential to see an orthopedic in Glen Rock, NJ to heal your bones correctly. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, our specialists can help carry out the proper treatment. Contact our staff today to receive orthopedic care.

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