How long does it take to recover from a radial head fracture?
Depending on how severe your fracture is and on other factors, you may not have full range of motion after you recover. Most fractures heal well in 6 to 8 weeks.
Is a radial head fracture serious?
In most Type III radial head fractures, there is also significant damage to the elbow joint and the ligaments that surround the elbow. Surgery is always required to either fix or remove the broken pieces of bone and repair the soft-tissue damage. If the damage is severe, the entire radial head may need to be removed.
What is an impacted fracture?
In fracture. An impacted fracture occurs when the broken ends of the bone are jammed together by the force of the injury. A comminuted fracture is one in which the broken ends of the bone are shattered into many pieces.
When does a radial head fracture require surgery?
As described above, the rule of threes can be used for determining the need for surgical intervention: Surgery is required if the fracture involves more than 33% of the articular surface, is angulated more than 30°, or is displaced more than 3 mm.
How serious is an impacted fracture?
An impacted fracture occurs when two pieces of a fractured bone are driven into each other. Because it involves more than a break in the bone, it is more serious than a simple fracture. It takes a significant amount of force to drive two fragments of a fractured bone together.
How do you fix a impact fracture?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture and may include pain relievers, PRICE (protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation), maneuvers or procedures to move the fractured bone fragments back into their normal position (reduction), immobilization of the injured part (for example, with a cast or …
Can’t bend elbow all the way after fall?
A person who cannot fully bend or straighten the elbow after an injury should see a doctor. Strain: A strain is the medical term used when muscles are torn or over-stretched. A more common term for this is a “pulled muscle.” Minor strains often heal with just time and rest. Surgery is rarely needed for a muscle strain.
What helps stiffness after radial head fracture?
Safe motion decreases stiffness and swelling, which improves pain levels. Range of motion exercises include bending and straightening the elbow as well as rotating your forearm with the hand palm up and palm down. If a radial head fracture requires surgery, the bone is stabilized with a metal plate or screws.
How do you fix an impacted fracture?