Elbow Fractures Treatment in Raleigh, NC
Elbow Fractures (Raleigh, NC)
An elbow fracture occurs when one or more of the bones that form the elbow joint (the humerus, radius, or ulna) break. These fractures commonly happen after a fall onto an outstretched arm, a direct blow, or a high-energy accident.
The elbow is a highly specialized hinge joint. Ligaments stabilize the bones, and multiple tendons and nerves run through a tight space. Because of this, elbow fractures can be complex injuries requiring evaluation by an upper-extremity specialist.
Stiffness is the #1 complication after any elbow fracture.
Early motion is critical to preserve long-term mobility.
Causes of Elbow Fractures
Fall from standing height or sports activity
Fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH injury)
Direct blow to the elbow
Motor vehicle or bicycle accidents
Common Types of Elbow Fractures
Radial Head Fracture – pain with rotation (turning key/doorknob)
Olecranon Fracture – affects the tip of the elbow
Distal Humerus Fracture – often requires surgery due to joint involvement
Terrible Triad Injury – elbow dislocation + radial head fracture + ligament injury
Symptoms
Patients usually experience:
Sharp pain around the elbow
Swelling, bruising, or deformity
Difficulty bending or straightening the arm
Pain when rotating the forearm
Numbness or tingling (possible nerve irritation)
Diagnosis
Evaluation includes:
Physical exam to assess joint stability, circulation, and nerve function
X-rays to confirm fracture location and displacement
CT scan if joint involvement or detailed planning is needed
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatment (stable fractures)
Short period of immobilization (splint or sling)
Early guided range-of-motion exercises
Anti-inflammatory medications
Hand/physical therapy
Surgical Treatment (displaced or unstable fractures)
Surgery is recommended when bones are not aligned or involve the joint surface.
Options may include:
Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using plates/screws/pins
Fragment removal (radial head)
Radial head replacement in severe cases
Goal of surgery: restore alignment and start early motion to prevent stiffness.
Recovery & Expectations
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 0–2 weeks | Splint immobilization; encourage finger movement |
| 2–6 weeks | Early elbow motion begins; limit lifting |
| 6–12 weeks | Progressive stretching and strengthening |
| 3–4 months | Most patients return to daily activities |
Recovery depends on fracture severity and patient age. Some mild stiffness is common even after healing.
Why Choose Raleigh Wrist for Elbow Fracture Care?
Fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeon
Focus on early motion protocols to prevent stiffness
Surgical and non-operative options customized to your injury
On-site therapy coordination
Why Choose Dr. Chambers for Hand and Wrist Care
At Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic, Dr. Stephen Chambers specializes in hand and upper extremity surgery. With years of expertise in treating hand and wrist injuries, including Elbow Fracture, Dr. Chambers provides comprehensive care—ranging from at home treatments and injections to advanced hand surgery when needed. Patients trust Dr. Chambers and his team for personalized care, effective treatment options, and excellent outcomes and describe Dr. Chambers as a caring, attentive, and skilled surgeon with excellent bedside manner. His amazing team ensures every patient feels supported and informed throughout the process.
If you are experiencing finger pain, swelling, or difficulty with wrist movements, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Chambers today Elbow Fracture and get back to normal use of your hand . Experience the benefit of specialized hand care close to home at Raleigh Orthopaedics in Raleigh, Cary, Holly Springs, and Wake Forest, North Carolina.
Distal Humerus Fracture
Radial Head fracture
Ulna Fracture
Why Choose Dr. Chambers for Hand and Wrist Care
At Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic, Dr. Stephen Chambers specializes in hand and upper extremity surgery. With years of expertise in treating hand and wrist injuries, including Elbow Fracture, Dr. Chambers provides comprehensive care—ranging from at home treatments and injections to advanced hand surgery when needed. Patients trust Dr. Chambers and his team for personalized care, effective treatment options, and excellent outcomes and describe Dr. Chambers as a caring, attentive, and skilled surgeon with excellent bedside manner. His amazing team ensures every patient feels supported and informed throughout the process.
If you are experiencing finger pain, swelling, or difficulty with wrist movements, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Chambers today Elbow Fracture and get back to normal use of your hand . Experience the benefit of specialized hand care close to home at Raleigh Orthopaedics in Raleigh, Cary, Holly Springs, and Wake Forest, North Carolina.
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