Rehabilitation After Elbow Dislocation from Car Accident: What to Expect

Elbow dislocation from a car accident?

On November 20, 2006, I was involved in a car accident and was admitted to Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital's Department of Trauma Surgery.
On November 21, I had a dislocated elbow that was reduced without surgery and was placed in a cast (with a slight fracture of the radial head).
The cast was removed on December 19, and I began rehabilitation in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department.
Currently, I can bend my arm to 90 degrees but cannot fully extend it, and I can only achieve about 15 degrees of flexion/extension.
I am very concerned about whether I will only be able to achieve this range of motion permanently, and how many months of rehabilitation I might need to improve my range of motion.

Youxin Chongchong, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/12/24

Dr. Ye Qingnian reply Orthopedics

To improve functionality, you must continuously practice on your own.
Bend and straighten your elbow without letting others assist you, as this can easily lead to calcification of the elbow muscles.
The more you practice daily, the more progress you will make in your recovery.

Reply Date: 2006/12/24

More Info

Rehabilitation after an elbow dislocation, especially following a car accident, can be a challenging process. It is important to understand that recovery timelines can vary significantly based on the severity of the injury, the effectiveness of the initial treatment, and the individual's overall health and commitment to rehabilitation.

In your case, it seems that you experienced an elbow dislocation with a minor fracture of the radial head. After the dislocation was reduced and immobilized in a cast, you have begun rehabilitation. Currently, you are able to flex your arm to 90 degrees but are struggling to fully extend it and can only achieve about 15 degrees of extension. This limitation can be concerning, but it is not uncommon after such injuries.

What to Expect in Rehabilitation
1. Initial Phase (0-6 weeks post-cast removal):
- During the first few weeks after the cast is removed, the focus will be on regaining range of motion. Gentle stretching and passive range of motion exercises may be introduced. Your physical therapist will guide you through these exercises to ensure that you do not overstress the healing tissues.

- Pain management is also crucial during this phase. Ice, heat, and possibly anti-inflammatory medications can help manage discomfort.

2. Strengthening Phase (6-12 weeks post-cast removal):
- Once you have regained some range of motion, the focus will shift to strengthening the muscles around the elbow. This may include resistance exercises using bands or light weights.

- Your therapist may also incorporate functional activities that mimic daily tasks to help improve your overall arm function.

3. Advanced Rehabilitation (3-6 months post-injury):
- As you progress, more advanced exercises will be introduced. These may include activities that require coordination and strength, such as throwing or lifting.

- Your therapist will also assess your functional abilities and may suggest modifications to your daily activities to prevent re-injury.

Timeline for Recovery
The timeline for recovery can vary widely. Generally, you might expect to see significant improvements within 3 to 6 months, but complete recovery can take longer, especially if there are complications such as stiffness or pain. If you are diligent with your rehabilitation exercises and follow your therapist's guidance, you may regain a greater range of motion and strength.

Concerns About Permanent Limitations
It is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of permanent limitations. While some individuals do experience residual stiffness or weakness after an elbow dislocation, many can achieve near-normal function with appropriate rehabilitation. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare team about your progress and any concerns you may have.

Recommendations
1. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with your orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist are crucial. They can monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your rehabilitation plan.

2. Adhere to Rehabilitation Protocol: Stick to the prescribed rehabilitation exercises and do not rush the process. Gradual progression is key to avoiding further injury.

3. Pain Management: If you experience significant pain during rehabilitation, discuss this with your therapist. They may adjust your exercises or suggest pain management strategies.

4. Stay Positive and Patient: Recovery can be a slow process, but maintaining a positive outlook and being patient with yourself will help you stay motivated.

In conclusion, while the journey to full recovery from an elbow dislocation can be lengthy and sometimes frustrating, with the right approach to rehabilitation, many individuals can regain significant function. Stay committed to your rehabilitation program, and do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare providers with any concerns or questions along the way.

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