Broken elbow

The elbow is the joint between the upper arm and the forearm. The elbow joint allows the forearm to bend, straighten, and rotate. The joint consists of three bones: the humerus and two forearm bones, the radius and the ulna.

The two most common elbow fractures are seen in the ulna and the radius. A fracture of the ulna (Latin: ulna) most often occurs at the level of the olecranon. This is the large, pointy piece of bone you can feel at the back of the elbow. In medical terms, this fracture is therefore also called an olecranon fracture.
The radius (Latin name: radius) breaks in most cases at the level of the ‘head’. Hence the term radial head fracture.

How does a broken elbow occur?

An elbow fracture is, in most cases, a direct result of trauma (an accident). Examples include a fall onto the elbow or outstretched hand, or a hard blow to the elbow. Especially in the case of an olecranon fracture, a fall is almost always the cause. The reason is that its superficial position under the skin makes this piece of bone vulnerable to breaking.

In contrast, a radial head fracture is more often seen after a direct blow to the elbow. Think of traffic accidents and contact sports.

Characteristics (symptoms) of a broken elbow

The most characteristic sign of a broken elbow is sudden, severe pain around the elbow. Another direct consequence is that moving the elbow becomes impossible. The area around the fracture may swell and discolor. Touching the fracture or moving the elbow increases the pain.

In a severe accident, the bone fragments can be displaced, making the elbow look deformed. Pressure on nerves or blood vessels may cause the fingers on the side of the injured elbow to tingle or become numb.

How is a broken elbow diagnosed?

Based on the patient’s (patiënt) history and the physical examination, a possible fracture of the elbow is often suspected. To confirm this, additional tests are always performed. In most cases, this is done by taking an röntgenfoto (X-ray). On an röntgenfoto (X-ray), the fracture line and location of the fracture are clearly visible. A CT scan or an ultrasound can also be chosen. Such scans show the bone fragments in even more detail.

Treatment of a broken elbow

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Surgery is often needed to repair the fracture, especially with an olecranon fracture. During surgery, the fracture is fixed with metal screws and plates so the bone fragments can grow back together.

In favorable cases, no surgery is needed. The fracture can then be treated with a cast for several weeks. In both cases, the elbow must not be moved for at least six weeks.

After this six-week period, it is important to start exercise therapy as soon as possible. Fully bending or straightening the elbow is often nearly impossible at first. The exercise therapy aims to reduce stiffness and strengthen the muscles again. It is advisable to do this under the guidance of a physical therapist. In addition to exercise therapy, a physical therapist may also use mobilization techniques, dry needling, massage, and medical taping.