An elbow fracture occurs when one or more of the bones that make up the elbow joint break due to trauma, falls, or direct impact. The elbow is a complex joint formed by the humerus (upper arm bone), radius, and ulna (forearm bones) — all of which allow you to bend, straighten, and rotate your arm.
Fractures in this area can range from simple, hairline cracks to complex, multi-fragment breaks involving joint surfaces. Because of the elbow’s vital role in arm movement, precise diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent stiffness, arthritis, or long-term loss of motion.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, patients from Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas receive expert fracture care from Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in upper-extremity injuries and reconstruction.
The elbow joint functions as both a hinge (for bending and straightening) and a pivot (for forearm rotation). Any break in the bones around this joint can disrupt alignment, stability, and motion.
Common types of elbow fractures include:
- Radial head fracture: Affects the top of the radius where it meets the humerus. Common after falling on an outstretched hand.
- Olecranon fracture: Break at the bony tip of the elbow (ulna). Often occurs from direct trauma or a fall.
- Distal humerus fracture: Break in the lower end of the upper arm bone, typically from significant impact.
- Combined or complex fractures: Involve multiple bones or joint surfaces, requiring surgical reconstruction.
Because these fractures often involve the joint itself, even minor misalignment can lead to long-term stiffness or arthritis if not treated promptly.
Causes and Risk Factors
Common causes include:
- Falls: Especially when landing on an outstretched hand.
- Sports injuries: From contact sports or cycling accidents.
- Work-related trauma: Heavy machinery or high-impact activities.
- Vehicle accidents: High-energy trauma causing multiple fractures.
- Osteoporosis: Increases risk of bone weakness and breaks in older adults.
Risk factors:
- Weak or brittle bones (osteoporosis).
- High-impact occupations or sports.
- History of upper-extremity fractures.
- Age-related bone density loss.
Elbow fracture symptoms typically appear immediately after injury and can vary depending on severity.
Common symptoms include:
- Severe pain around the elbow joint.
- Swelling and bruising.
- Inability to move the arm or bend the elbow.
- Visible deformity in more severe fractures.
- Numbness or tingling (if nerves are affected).
- Crepitus (grinding) when attempting movement.
Any suspected fracture should be evaluated urgently to prevent further damage.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, diagnosis begins with a detailed assessment to identify fracture type, alignment, and any associated ligament or nerve injury.
Diagnostic process includes:
- Physical examination: Checking swelling, tenderness, and stability.
Imaging:
- X-rays: Confirm fracture pattern and alignment.
- CT scan: Provides detailed 3D imaging for complex or joint-involved fractures.
- MRI: Evaluates soft-tissue injury to ligaments, tendons, or nerves.
Neurovascular evaluation: Ensures blood flow and nerve function are intact.
Accurate imaging allows Dr. Burke to develop a customized treatment plan to restore anatomy and function.
The primary goals are realignment, stabilization, and rehabilitation to ensure full, pain-free motion after healing.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Some stable or minor fractures can heal without surgery under close monitoring.
- Immobilization: Splints, casts, or braces hold bones in place while healing.
- Pain management: Anti-inflammatory medication or cold therapy.
- Follow-up X-rays: Track healing and detect any shifting of bone fragments.
- Begins once stability is confirmed.
- Focuses on gentle range-of-motion and gradual strengthening.
Surgical Treatments
If bones are displaced, joint surfaces misaligned, or the fracture involves multiple fragments, surgery may be required to restore stability and function.
Surgical options include:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF):
- Bone fragments are realigned and stabilized with plates, screws, or pins.
Radial Head Replacement:
- For severely comminuted (shattered) fractures of the radial head.
- Minimally invasive technique for evaluating and repairing joint surfaces.
- Used for complex or multi-bone injuries requiring structural restoration.
Joint Replacement
- Considered for severe post-traumatic arthritis or non-repairable fractures in older adults.
Each procedure is performed with precision to restore anatomy, maintain flexibility, and reduce future complications.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery time depends on fracture type and treatment method.
Typical recovery timelines:
- Non-surgical: 6–8 weeks for bone healing, with gradual strengthening.
- Surgical: 10–12 weeks (or more for complex cases), followed by a structured rehabilitation program.
Rehabilitation goals:
- Regain motion and flexibility.
- Rebuild muscle strength around the elbow and forearm.
- Prevent stiffness and joint contractures.
- Gradually return to work or sport under medical supervision.
A personalized therapy plan ensures a smooth recovery and optimal results.
Long-Term Outlook and Prevention
With proper treatment and rehabilitation, most patients recover full elbow function. However, severe or complex fractures may increase the risk of arthritis or stiffness over time.
Prevention tips:
- Maintain strong bones with a calcium-rich diet and weight-bearing exercise.
- Use proper technique and protective gear during sports.
- Address balance or vision issues that increase fall risk.
- Avoid high-impact falls or direct trauma when possible.
Ongoing care and strengthening exercises can reduce long-term complications.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek immediate orthopedic care if:
- You experience severe pain or swelling after an injury.
- The elbow appears deformed or out of alignment.
- You cannot move your arm or hear grinding during motion.
- There is numbness, tingling, or coldness in the hand or fingers.
Prompt diagnosis prevents permanent stiffness and nerve damage.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If you’ve suffered an elbow fracture, professional orthopedic care can help restore strength, mobility, and comfort.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide expert treatment for elbow fractures—from non-surgical management to advanced surgical repair.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, offering complete orthopedic care and rehabilitation to help you return to a pain-free life.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in upper-extremity reconstruction and trauma.
