Cracking Elbow Sounds After Car Accident: Causes and When to Seek Help

There is a popping sound on the outer side of the elbow after the car accident?

Hello doctor, about 23 days ago I was in a car accident and when I flew forward, I landed on my hands.
At that time, both my wrist and elbow were very painful, and I had a large bruise near the outer side of my left elbow (the bruise has faded but is not completely gone).
For several days after the accident, my hands were very weak, but they have mostly recovered now (there is still slight pain when I exert my muscles).
However, when I straighten or bend my left elbow, I often hear a popping sound (I feel the sound comes from the outer side of the elbow).
It doesn't hurt and I don't feel much.
After the accident, both of my elbows were X-rayed by an orthopedic doctor, but the doctor did not mention any issues with my left elbow.
At that time, I felt my left hand was not seriously injured (because my attention was focused on the fracture issue of my right hand, which has now had the cast removed and is undergoing rehabilitation).
I only recently noticed the persistent popping sound on the outer side of my elbow.
Could you please tell me what might be causing the frequent popping sound in my elbow? What will happen if I leave it untreated? Will it heal on its own, or should I seek medical attention soon? If there is no serious issue, I would like to rest for another month to see if it improves.

Jiahao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/08

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello, if there are abnormalities in the joints without accompanying pain, it is mostly not a concern, and rehabilitation can be performed.
If there are still questions, it is recommended to have a follow-up examination with an orthopedic specialist to confirm whether there are any abnormalities in the bones.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2023/12/08

More Info

After a car accident, experiencing cracking or popping sounds in the elbow can be concerning, especially if it follows an injury. In your case, it seems that you sustained some trauma to your left elbow during the accident, which resulted in bruising and pain. While the pain has mostly subsided, the presence of these sounds can indicate a few potential issues.

Possible Causes of Cracking Elbow Sounds
1. Air Bubbles: One common reason for cracking or popping sounds in joints is the formation and collapse of tiny air bubbles in the synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints. This phenomenon, known as cavitation, is generally harmless.

2. Ligament or Tendon Movement: Sometimes, ligaments or tendons may snap over bony prominences during movement, creating a cracking sound. This is often benign, especially if there is no associated pain or swelling.

3. Cartilage Damage: In cases of trauma, there may be some damage to the cartilage in the elbow joint. While you mentioned that X-rays did not reveal any significant issues, cartilage injuries may not always be visible on X-rays. If the cartilage is damaged, it could lead to joint sounds and potentially to long-term issues if not addressed.

4. Joint Instability: Following an injury, the joint may become unstable, leading to abnormal movements and sounds. This could be due to ligamentous injury or weakness in the surrounding musculature.

5. Tendonitis or Bursitis: Inflammation of the tendons (tendonitis) or the bursa (bursitis) around the elbow can also lead to sounds during movement. This is often accompanied by pain, which you mentioned is minimal now.

When to Seek Help
While the absence of pain is a good sign, it is still important to monitor the situation. Here are some guidelines on when to seek medical attention:
- Persistent Symptoms: If the cracking sounds persist and are accompanied by swelling, pain, or a decrease in range of motion, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

- New Symptoms: If you start experiencing new symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, or instability in the elbow, you should seek medical evaluation.

- Functional Limitations: If the sounds are associated with difficulty in performing daily activities or if you feel that the elbow is not functioning as it should, it is advisable to get it checked.

Self-Care and Recovery
In the meantime, here are some self-care tips you can consider:
- Rest: Allow your elbow to rest, especially if you notice any discomfort during activities. Avoid heavy lifting or repetitive motions that may aggravate the joint.

- Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the elbow can help reduce any inflammation and discomfort, especially after activities that may strain the joint.

- Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Once the initial pain has subsided, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore function and stability to the elbow. However, consult a physical therapist for a tailored program.

- Monitor Progress: Keep track of any changes in symptoms. If you notice improvement, you may choose to wait before seeking further medical evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, the cracking sounds in your elbow after the car accident could be due to several benign causes, especially since there is no accompanying pain. However, it is essential to remain vigilant and seek medical advice if symptoms change or worsen. If you feel uncertain, a follow-up with an orthopedic specialist or a physical therapist could provide peace of mind and ensure that your elbow is healing properly.

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