Elbow Fracture Treatment
The elbow joint is unique in its design, combining a hinge and pivot joint to allow for optimal range of motion and lifting capacity. The three bones that connect in the elbow include the upper arm bone (humerus) and the two forearm bones (radius, ulna). When any of these bones are broken near their connecting point, it is considered an elbow fracture. Jonathan L. Glashow, MD orthopedic surgery and sports injury center offers elbow fracture treatment at our facility in Miami, FL.
The pinnacle of the elbow is the pointy tip. The olecranon is the bony protrusion at the end of the ulna bone on the outside of the elbow. This is one of the more common areas to be fractured in the elbow due to its location. If you fall and land on your bent elbow, you can shatter the olecranon and fracture other bones within the joint. Broken elbows can also be mild, with only a small crack in the bone.
Broken Elbow Symptoms
If your elbow sustains enough pressure or impact, the bones can be fractured. Elbows that are twisted or severely impacted may also be dislocated along with the fracture with sprained or torn ligaments. Symptoms range in intensity depending on how severely the joint is damaged. Some of the symptoms include:
- Swollen elbow
- Bruising
- Throbbing pain
- Increased pain when bending the elbow
- Tingling or numbness
Treatment for elbow fractures may be as simple as immobilizing the joint to allow a small fracture to heal. However, if there is a complex or open fracture, surgery may be required. If you experience a complex elbow fracture, you need an experienced orthopedic surgeon to perform your procedure to restore function.
Dr. Glashow and his team have the expertise you need if you have a broken elbow and require treatment or surgery. If you have symptoms of an elbow fracture or your doctor has suggested surgery, contact our orthopedic center for a consultation. Call our clinic in Miami, FL, to schedule your appointment.
