Most commonly, children are more susceptible to an elbow fracture than an adult.
While it may occur as a result of a fall or accident in adults, the elbow fracture accounts for nearly ten percent of all broken bones in children.
The elbow fracture can be extremely painful because of the anatomy and design of the elbow.
The elbow is comprised of three bones that create the joint.
The humerus, which is considered to be the upper arm bone; the radius, which is a forearm bone that runs between the elbow and wrist; and the ulna, which is another forearm bone located along the inside of the arm.
Elbow Fracture Diagnosis The doctor will address the symptoms of the elbow upon arrival for treatment, along with an assessment of previous medical history.
During the physical examination the elbow will be thoroughly assessed.
Common symptoms of an elbow fracture include pain and tenderness around the localized site of injury, swelling that may range from mild to severe, bruising around the break site and limited range of motion and mobility.
Investigative Tests X-rays are among the most common investigative tests performed to assess the severity of the elbow fracture.
X-rays are almost always required so that the treating physician can determine what kind of fracture they are dealing with.
Assessment must be made to see if the bones have moved out of place or remain intact.
For children, a careful assessment must be made because the bones are still growing and developing.
A doctor may require x-rays be done of both arms in order to compare bone formation.
Non-Surgical and Surgical Treatment Options When there is little to no bone displacement, surgery may not be required.
This means that the elbow fracture was clean and that the bones did not shift around.
Non-surgical treatment consists of immobilization of the arm by a cast or splint for several weeks.
Throughout this time, the doctor may order x-rays at various stages to ensure healing is taking place and bones are staying aligned.
In severe elbow fractures, where the bones are crushed or have moved around, surgery may be required.
The bones must be manipulated back into place via surgical procedures.
These procedures may include the use of pins, screws and wires designed to position the bones and hold them in place while the elbow heals.
A cast is worn for several weeks following the procedure.
While it may occur as a result of a fall or accident in adults, the elbow fracture accounts for nearly ten percent of all broken bones in children.
The elbow fracture can be extremely painful because of the anatomy and design of the elbow.
The elbow is comprised of three bones that create the joint.
The humerus, which is considered to be the upper arm bone; the radius, which is a forearm bone that runs between the elbow and wrist; and the ulna, which is another forearm bone located along the inside of the arm.
Elbow Fracture Diagnosis The doctor will address the symptoms of the elbow upon arrival for treatment, along with an assessment of previous medical history.
During the physical examination the elbow will be thoroughly assessed.
Common symptoms of an elbow fracture include pain and tenderness around the localized site of injury, swelling that may range from mild to severe, bruising around the break site and limited range of motion and mobility.
Investigative Tests X-rays are among the most common investigative tests performed to assess the severity of the elbow fracture.
X-rays are almost always required so that the treating physician can determine what kind of fracture they are dealing with.
Assessment must be made to see if the bones have moved out of place or remain intact.
For children, a careful assessment must be made because the bones are still growing and developing.
A doctor may require x-rays be done of both arms in order to compare bone formation.
Non-Surgical and Surgical Treatment Options When there is little to no bone displacement, surgery may not be required.
This means that the elbow fracture was clean and that the bones did not shift around.
Non-surgical treatment consists of immobilization of the arm by a cast or splint for several weeks.
Throughout this time, the doctor may order x-rays at various stages to ensure healing is taking place and bones are staying aligned.
In severe elbow fractures, where the bones are crushed or have moved around, surgery may be required.
The bones must be manipulated back into place via surgical procedures.
These procedures may include the use of pins, screws and wires designed to position the bones and hold them in place while the elbow heals.
A cast is worn for several weeks following the procedure.
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