Broken Elbow
Guide for Treating a Broken Elbow
A name like “humerus” may give the impression of being funny, but having a broken elbow is certainly no laughing matter. One of the hinge joints of the body, an elbow break is not only very painful but can also take a long time to heal.
Hinge joints, such as found in the elbow, are those which permit movement in only direction. The one exception to this rule is the knee, as it swivels on its axis to allow freer movement for walking. The elbow joint is the junction of three separate bones: the humerus that extends from the elbow to the shoulder, and two bones that run from the elbow down the wrists that are called the radius and the ulna. These bones are bundled together with various muscles, ligaments, nerves and tendons to give our arms the mobility we require for the numerous tasks performed by the arms and the hands.
The synergy of movement of all of these elements is crucial for movement to take place. A fall upon which the individual lands directly on the elbow, landing on an outstretched arm or a blow that occurs directly to the elbow can disrupt this synergy by separating the bones at the joint; in other words, a broken elbow. There are many types of breaks that can occur, with the most common break being an olecranon fracture. The olecranon is the name for the part of the ulna that forms the bony point of the outer elbow; an area which cradles the end of the humerus.
A break in this area of the arm is felt immediately by intense pain. The elbow will be sensitive to the touch, may experience sudden swelling and bruising and there may a loss of sensation in one or more fingers. Attempts to straighten the elbow will be not only futile, but will also be accompanied by painful shocks up and down the arm. With the synergy of all parts in the junction interrupted, the elbow is no longer able to function in its normal capacity.
A trip to the doctor or emergency room will be required to confirm the diagnosis of and begin treatment for a fracture. Through palpitation of the area around the elbow, the doctor will be able to determine the extent of the injury. They will also need to ensure that blood flow through the elbow to the hand has not been affected, and will check the pulse points to get this information. A set of x-rays will be the confirmation of the fracture, and will let the doctor know exactly where the break has occurred. Treatment will be able to be determined once the x-rays give this information, and may be as simple as a regimen of ice and pain medication with a splint to hold the elbow in place. A more serious broken elbow may require surgery; with pins, wires, screws or sutures being used to hold the bones together during the healing process.
Rehabilitation time for the elbow is lengthy. It could take an entire year before full healing is completed, although a complete range of motion may never be returned to the elbow. The best scenario is to get close to normal function back in about 4 months’ time; the most effective medicine being the passage of time.
The elbow is a complex joint, one that can pose some serious and long lasting issues if broken. Not only will the individual face a great deal of pain of the break and the healing process, but there is no guarantee that a full healing will take place; certainly no “humerus” matter for anyone.