Fast Treatment for Elbow Fractures
Bones are strong and can bend in response to pressure. However, when pressure on the bone exceeds its ability to withstand it, a fracture may occur. Fractures can be partial or complete breaks. They can also involve crushed bones or bone pieces that break through the skin, called an open fracture. An elbow fracture is a broken bone involving at least one of the bones of the elbow joint.
Elbow fractures require emergency medical attention. In cases of serious injury or trauma, call 9-1-1. If you need to go to the ER, trust Dignity Health for your care.
After you’ve received emergency care for an elbow fracture in the Bay Area, Find a Doctor at Dignity Health to assist with your follow-up care and get you back to your pain-free life.
Elbow Fracture Causes
Most cases of elbow fracture are caused by trauma, such as a car accident, fall, or sports injury. Overuse or repetitive motions can also lead to fractures. Performing the same movements over a period of time can gradually lead to a hairline (stress) fracture.
Elbow Fracture Symptoms
Some people hear a snap or grinding noise when an elbow fracture occurs. Other signs and symptoms of an elbow fracture include:
- Bruising
- Deformity
- Difficulty moving the arm
- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
Treatment & Prevention of Elbow Fractures at Dignity Health
Your treatment plan will depend on the severity of the break and your risk factors. Your elbow fracture will be treated by one of our expert orthopedic surgeons. For a simple break, your surgeon may be able to set the bone(s) using only a splint or cast. However, surgery to secure the bones with metal plates, pins, and screws is sometimes necessary.
Your recovery time will also depend on the severity of the break. Most elbow fractures are a temporary inconvenience and heal over several weeks. Some are more serious and require lengthy healing and rehabilitation.
You can reduce your risk of elbow fractures by using protective elbow guards and padding when performing activities that may put you at increased risk for injury.
At Dignity Health, our orthopedic care is always personalized to meet your unique needs. Call (844) 387-6324 to request a doctor referral today.
Dignity Health provides expert treatment for elbow injuries and conditions, including elbow fractures, in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Redwood City.