Elbow pain can significantly impact your daily life and activities, especially if you're an athlete or someone who leads an active lifestyle. Research shows that elbow trauma is common in athletes. Understanding the differences between these conditions is crucial in getting the treatment you need to heal properly.
At Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists, we create personalized orthopedic plans to help you find relief and get back to what you love. Based in PA, our experienced team provides care for elbow fractures, tendinitis, and other joint conditions. Whether you need expert evaluation, advanced treatment, or recovery guidance, we’re here to help. Schedule your appointment today for lasting relief.
Now, let's explore the key symptoms, causes, and treatment options for elbow fractures and tendinitis.
Broken Elbow
A broken or injured elbow is typically the result of a broken bone caused by a direct blow or falling onto an outstretched hand. The elbow consists of several key bones, including the distal humerus, and fractures in this area, such as distal humerus fractures or an olecranon fracture, can cause significant pain and limited movement. Other symptoms may include swelling, bruising, difficulty bending the joint, and tips to help reduce swelling.
Treatment depends on the severity and type of injury but may involve immobilization, physical therapy, or surgery to restore function and repair damaged muscle or bone. Early evaluation and care are crucial for proper healing and recovery.
Symptoms and Causes of Tendinitis or Fractured Elbow
Elbow Fractures
A fractured elbow typically results from trauma, such as a fall on an outstretched arm or a direct impact.
Key symptoms include:
- Severe or immediate pain, especially when attempting to move the arm
- Swelling around the elbow area
- Bruising and tenderness in the injured area
- Deformity or an inability to straighten the arm
Not all elbow fractures are the same. Some involve the upper arm bone, forearm bones, or the radial head. A displaced fracture, where the bone breaks and shifts, or a neck fracture of the upper arm, may require surgery. Other fractures, like those involving bone fragments or the pointy tip of the elbow (the bony tip), may be treated with immobilization.
Elbow Tendinitis
Tendinitis of the elbow, such as tennis or golfer's elbow, arises due to overuse, repetitive motions, or strain on other soft tissues.
Symptoms include:
- Pain along the outer or inner elbow
- Tenderness to touch, especially near the elbow stiffness area
- Weak grip strength or pain during gripping activities
- Swelling in some cases
Both conditions can involve strain on the tendons or other tissues near the elbow joint, impacting overall elbow movement.
Diagnostic Tools
Diagnosing the exact cause of elbow pain involves a thorough physical examination by a specialist. Common diagnostic tools include:
- X-rays are used to detect fractures, bone breaks, or assess joint alignment.
- Physical exams to pinpoint pain location, range of motion, and strength, including one or more fingers.
- MRI or ultrasound to evaluate tendon damage, other treatments, or injuries to other soft tissues.
Good blood flow is essential for healing, and in some cases, diagnostic tests may check for issues with blood vessels near the injured area.
Surgical or Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Elbow Fractures
Treatment for elbow fractures depends on the severity and type of fracture. Common approaches include:
- Immobilization with a cast or splint to keep the bone in the correct position for a few weeks.
- Surgical intervention for complex fractures, such as radial head fractures, requiring internal fixation with plates, screws, or pins.
- Bone grafts are used in cases where the fracture occurs with significant bone loss.
- Pain management using medication, cold therapy, or activity modification to reduce pain and swelling.
A fractured elbow, particularly when the radial head pushes against other tissues or when blood vessels and nerves are affected, may require surgery to prevent permanent damage or delay healing.
Tendinitis of the Elbow
Managing tendinitis often focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing further strain. Methods include:
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles, improve upper arm flexibility, and perform motion exercises for the elbow area.
- Rest and activity modification to minimize strain on the injured area.
- Anti-inflammatory medications or injections to alleviate pain and swelling.
In severe cases of tendinitis, surgical procedures may be required if other treatments fail to deliver results.
Rehabilitation and Return to Normal Activities
Whether recovering from a broken elbow, radial head fractures, or tendinitis, rehabilitation is critical for restoring function. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises to regain range of motion, build strength, and avoid stiffness in the upper part of the arm or elbow.
A well-designed treatment plan ensures the injured area heals without risking further damage, allowing patients to return to daily activities or sports without permanent damage.
When to Seek Help
Persistent or severe elbow pain, such as pain after a sports injury or trauma, should be evaluated promptly. At Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists, our orthopaedic surgeons provide expert diagnosis and personalized care for elbow fractures, tendinitis, and other related conditions.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Elbow injuries, whether fractures or tendinitis, can significantly impact your daily life, but effective treatment and recovery are possible with the right care. At Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists, we provide expert solutions tailored to your needs.
Don’t wait to address your pain. Schedule an appointment with Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists today for personalized care and state-of-the-art treatments designed to get you back to enjoying the activities you love.
