Elbow Injury from Dancing: Recovery Tips and Timeline for Nerve Sensitivity

Elbow contusion?

Hello Doctor: Due to dance practice, I accidentally hit my elbow against a friend's fist.
It was very painful at the moment, and my entire hand was numb for about 10 minutes.
It has been about 10 days since the incident, and the condition has improved significantly, but my little finger and ring finger still experience slight numbness (the sensation is very mild).
My elbow has normal range of motion and does not feel sore.
After researching online, I suspect it might be an ulnar nerve injury.
When I touch the ulnar nerve area on my elbow with my right hand, I notice that the injured hand is much more sensitive than the other hand, and even slight pressure causes a sensation similar to an electric shock.
Will heat therapy combined with medicinal alcohol treatment help me recover gradually? Typically, how long does it take to heal? Would treatments like acupuncture be necessary? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

LEE, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/19

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, your symptoms suggest an ulnar nerve injury.
Compared to other muscles, ligaments, and soft tissues, nerve injuries typically require a longer recovery time.
If the injury is severe, there is a possibility of residual effects.
However, based on your description, the mechanism of injury does not seem too severe, so I believe the chances of recovery should be quite high.
After the injury, you should start with ice therapy, and after five days, you can begin heat therapy.
Additionally, you may consider taking Alinamin-F orally to nourish the nerves.
Please observe your condition for about three to four weeks, and if recovery does not meet expectations, I recommend visiting the outpatient clinic for further evaluation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2019/10/19

More Info

Injuries to the elbow, particularly those sustained during activities like dancing, can lead to various complications, including nerve sensitivity and discomfort. Based on your description, it seems that you may have experienced a mild injury to the ulnar nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the little finger and half of the ring finger. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as numbness and increased sensitivity in the affected area, are consistent with ulnar nerve involvement.

Recovery Tips for Elbow Injury
1. Rest and Activity Modification: Initially, it's crucial to rest the injured elbow and avoid activities that may exacerbate the injury. Since you are a dancer, you may need to modify your dance routines temporarily to prevent further strain on the elbow.

2. Ice Therapy: In the first few days following the injury, applying ice to the elbow can help reduce swelling and numb pain. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed.

3. Heat Therapy: After the initial swelling has decreased (usually after 48 hours), you can switch to heat therapy. Applying heat can help relax and soothe the muscles around the elbow, which may alleviate some discomfort. However, be cautious with heat application if you notice any swelling.

4. Medication: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and inflammation. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

5. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore mobility and strength to the elbow. It’s essential to perform these exercises under the guidance of a physical therapist to avoid aggravating the injury.

6. Nerve Gliding Exercises: If the ulnar nerve is involved, nerve gliding exercises can be beneficial. These exercises help the nerve move more freely within its sheath and can reduce symptoms of tingling or numbness.

7. Therapeutic Modalities: Treatments such as ultrasound therapy, electrical stimulation, or massage therapy may be beneficial in promoting healing and reducing pain. These should be performed by a qualified physical therapist.

8. Acupuncture or Acupressure: Some individuals find relief through acupuncture or acupressure, which may help alleviate nerve sensitivity and promote healing.

Timeline for Recovery
The recovery timeline for an elbow injury involving nerve sensitivity can vary significantly based on the severity of the injury and individual healing rates. Generally, mild nerve injuries can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to fully heal. Given that you are already noticing improvement, it is a positive sign. However, the lingering numbness in your little and ring fingers suggests that the nerve may still be recovering.

When to Seek Further Treatment
If your symptoms do not continue to improve over the next few weeks, or if you experience increased pain, weakness, or significant changes in sensation, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They may recommend further diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI or nerve conduction studies, to assess the extent of the injury and determine the best course of action.

In summary, while heat therapy and topical treatments like medicinal alcohol may provide some relief, a comprehensive approach that includes rest, physical therapy, and possibly acupuncture will likely yield the best results. Be patient with your recovery, and listen to your body as you gradually return to your dancing activities.

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