Dealing with Elbow Dislocation: Recovery Challenges and Solutions

Elbow dislocation

Hello, on March 16, I dislocated my right elbow while exercising.
I was taken to the emergency room and had a cast applied at a 120-degree angle.
Two weeks later, the cast was removed (X-rays indicated it had healed).
However, my elbow still has limited mobility (it can only extend to 170 degrees outward and flex to 90 degrees inward).
Despite my efforts to rehabilitate at home every night, the results have been unsatisfactory, and I still experience pain and stiffness in the tendons and muscles around the elbow, along with soreness in my forearm.
I also feel that the shapes of my left and right elbows feel different when I touch them.
My daily life has become very inconvenient.
What should I do? Will this be permanent?

A-Hsing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/04/09

Dr. Pan Yingda reply Rehabilitation

It won't be permanent.
This is due to tissue injury combined with the immobilization from the cast, which leads to some adhesions and inflammatory responses, along with poor circulation and muscle atrophy, resulting in a different shape.
You should arrange for rehabilitation nearby, and after returning home, make sure to perform joint exercises regularly and do plenty of massage.

Reply Date: 2004/04/09

More Info

Dealing with an elbow dislocation can be a challenging experience, particularly when it comes to recovery and rehabilitation. Your situation, where you experienced an elbow dislocation on March 16 and have since been dealing with limited range of motion and persistent pain, is not uncommon. Let's break down the recovery challenges and potential solutions.

Understanding Elbow Dislocation Recovery
An elbow dislocation occurs when the bones of the elbow joint are forced out of their normal positions. This can lead to damage to the surrounding ligaments, tendons, and muscles, which may result in pain, swelling, and limited mobility. After an initial treatment, such as reduction and immobilization in a cast, the recovery process typically involves regaining strength and range of motion.

Challenges in Recovery
1. Limited Range of Motion: As you noted, your elbow can only extend to 170 degrees and flex to 90 degrees. This limitation is often due to stiffness in the joint, which can occur after immobilization. The muscles and tendons around the elbow may also become tight, contributing to the difficulty in movement.

2. Pain and Discomfort: Persistent pain in the elbow and forearm can be a significant barrier to rehabilitation. This pain may stem from inflammation, scar tissue formation, or even nerve irritation following the dislocation.

3. Muscle Weakness: After a period of immobilization, the muscles around the elbow can weaken, making it harder to perform daily activities. This weakness can also contribute to the feeling of instability in the joint.

4. Psychological Factors: The fear of re-injury or pain can hinder your willingness to engage fully in rehabilitation exercises, which is crucial for recovery.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging with a physical therapist who specializes in orthopedic rehabilitation can be incredibly beneficial. They can provide a tailored exercise program that focuses on gradually increasing your range of motion, strength, and function. Techniques may include:
- Passive Range of Motion Exercises: Initially, a therapist may assist you in moving your elbow to help regain flexibility.

- Active Range of Motion Exercises: As you progress, you will be encouraged to perform movements independently.

- Strengthening Exercises: Once you have regained some mobility, strengthening exercises will help rebuild muscle around the elbow.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any medication.

3. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat can help relax and loosen tissues and stimulate blood flow to the area, while cold therapy can reduce swelling and numb sharp pain. Alternating between the two may provide relief.

4. Gradual Return to Activities: It’s important to gradually return to your normal activities, including sports. Avoid pushing through pain, as this can lead to further injury. Listen to your body and communicate with your therapist about any discomfort.

5. Regular Follow-ups: Keep regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress. If you notice any significant changes in pain or mobility, it’s crucial to address these concerns promptly.

6. Surgical Options: In some cases, if conservative treatment does not yield satisfactory results, surgical intervention may be necessary to address any underlying issues, such as loose bodies in the joint or significant ligament damage.

Conclusion
While it can be concerning to feel that your elbow may not return to its pre-injury state, many individuals experience significant improvements with appropriate rehabilitation. The key is to remain committed to your recovery plan and work closely with healthcare professionals. With time, patience, and the right approach, you can regain function and reduce pain in your elbow. Remember, recovery is a journey, and it’s essential to celebrate small victories along the way.

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