Bruised Elbow
Bruised Elbow: What is it and How It Can Happen
Having a bruised elbow can be frustrating and painful. At times, it can even be a bit mysterious, as the person acquiring the injury may have no recollection of how it came to pass. To better understand the nature of a bruised elbow, let’s look at what the elbow is and how it can become bruised.
WHAT IS THE ELBOW?
While most people recognize the specific body part called the elbow, many do not how the joint works and what it is comprised of. The elbow is the joining together of three bones in the arm. Held together by a string of nerves, blood vessels, and muscles; the elbow is vital for hinge movement in the arm as well as allowing the arm to be straightened.
HOW CAN AN ELBOW BE BRUISED?
As with every other part of the human body, the elbow is subject to numerous injuries. Ranging from minor to serious, elbow injuries can either be mildly annoying to downright excruciating. Below is a list of several common harms that occur in this part of the body; all of which may present bruising of the elbow as evidence.
Bumping the “Funny Bone”
As most who have hit their elbow on a hard object will agree, bumping the funny bone is certainly not funny. In fact, it is quite the opposite. The momentary shooting pain and numbness created by this type of casual injury aren’t damaging, but can cause bruising to appear on the outside of the skin over the elbow.
Fracture
Whether a full blow break, or a hairline fracture, this type of serious injury to the elbow requires time to heal. If damage is not corrected right, the elbow may incur permanent disability. Common reasons for both fracture and breakage include:
- Automobile or other high impact collisions
- Slips and falls
- Sporting incidents
Muscle and Tendon Issues
These types of elbow pain are internal and difficult to explain. Usually as a result of over-extending or illness, muscles and tendons may become torn or inflamed causing anywhere from a dull aching to sharp, stabbing pain. Tendonitis is a common culprit and is generally brought on by recurrent motions of the elbow.
While this kind of problem doesn’t necessarily show signs of bruising on the elbow, pain associated with the injury may feel tender and painful to the touch like that of a bruise. Typical damage occurs through strains and tears caused by sporting activities or a sudden jerking motion to the arm.
WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT A BRUISED ELBOW?
Depending on the cause and severity of an injury, many things can be offered for treatment. For serious wounds, surgery may be suggested to repair broken or torn parts. As for minor injury, such as bruising or aches and pains; over the counter pain relievers may help to alleviate discomfort. Also, cold compresses may be recommended to reduce swelling.
Generally, any serious damage done to the elbow is immediately recognizable as severe and unbearable pain is common. With minor incidents, where the elbow is simply bruised; time is most likely the only treatment necessary for complete healing.
As with any injury, if you suspect that something more serious than bruising has occurred, seek medical attention quickly to avoid any future complications that could arise. It is much better to be safe than sorry when dealing with such a crucial body part.