You have been treated for a possible fracture to your elbow. You have had a thorough examination and are now considered fit to be discharged. The following instructions will aid your recovery.
How to care for your fractured elbow
- You have had some bleeding inside the elbow joint and the most common cause of this is a small break/fracture of the radius bone. The break does not appear on X-rays but there are signs to indicate one.
- These fractures almost always heal well with time and use – no specific treatment is required and therefore routine follow-up is unnecessary.
- A sling will hold your elbow in a comfortable position for a few days.
- You should wean yourself off this as your pain settles and aim to remove the sling completely as soon as you feel able.
- You may initially require regular pain killers as it is important to keep gently moving the elbow and gradually resume daily activities within the limits of discomfort. This will prevent stiffness and ensure the quickest return to normal function.
- Forcible stretching is unnecessary, and is likely to cause pain and delay your recovery.
- Symptoms are usually minor, but may take up to 3–6 weeks to settle.
- Elbow movements will continue to improve for up to 6 months
- There may be slightly reduced movement at the elbow, especially on straightening it, but this is unlikely to affect your function.
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Should you have any worries or concerns following discharge from hospital please contact:
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Call the Plaster RoomIf you have any serious concerns or you problem becomes urgent, please attend or contact the Emergency Department on 01733 673 285
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