Radial Head Fractures Treatment in Raleigh, NC
Radial Head Fracture (Elbow Fracture) – Raleigh, NC
A radial head fracture occurs when the radial head (the top of the radius bone on the thumb side of your forearm) breaks. This bone helps stabilize the elbow and allows forearm rotation, such as turning a doorknob or key.
Radial head fractures are common after a fall onto an outstretched hand or a direct blow to the elbow.
Patients typically report pain when rotating the forearm or bending the elbow.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
Pain on the outer (lateral) side of the elbow
Swelling and stiffness
Pain with rotation (turning a doorknob, screwdriver motion)
Difficulty straightening the elbow
Bruising or decreased grip strength
Diagnosis
Evaluation includes:
Physical examination to check elbow stability and range of motion
X-rays to confirm fracture location and displacement
CT scan (if needed) for complex fractures or surgical planning
Up to 30% of radial head fractures may be associated with ligament injuries or elbow dislocation.
Treatment Options
✅ Non-Surgical Treatment (most common)
Recommended when fracture fragments are aligned and the joint is stable.
Short period of immobilization in a sling or splint
Early gentle motion to avoid stiffness
Ice, anti-inflammatory medication
Formal or guided hand/physical therapy
Early motion is critical — prolonged immobilization increases the risk of permanent stiffness.
✅ Surgical Treatment (when needed)
Surgery is recommended when:
The radial head is shattered (multiple fragments)
Motion is blocked by loose bone fragments
Elbow is unstable due to ligament injury
Surgical options include:
ORIF (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation) – screws/plates to stabilize the bone
Radial head replacement – used when fragments cannot be repaired
Goal: restore elbow stability and allow early motion.
Recovery & Expectations
| Time | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 0–2 weeks | Swelling improves; begin light motion |
| 2–6 weeks | Increasing range of motion; avoid lifting |
| 6–12 weeks | Strengthening begins |
| 3–4 months | Return to full activity |
Mild stiffness is common but improves with early movement and therapy.
Radial Head Fracture Treatment in Raleigh, NC
Raleigh Wrist offers:
Fellowship-trained hand & upper-extremity surgical expertise
Non-operative and surgical treatment options
Focus on early motion protocols to minimize stiffness
Same-week appointments
Why Choose Dr. Chambers for Elbow 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 Radial Head Fractures, 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, Radial Head Fractures, 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.