Elbow Dislocation: Recovery and Care Tips

Q: Elbow Dislocation: Recovery and Care Tips

Hello, Miss： Thank you for your inquiry. <br>I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestion： It is recommended to visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic for an examination. <br>Please have an orthopedic physician explain the details. <br>Wishing you

Left elbow dislocation?

On the afternoon of May 4th, my left elbow dislocated.
I first went to the martial arts gym behind my house for treatment, where they applied medication and a bandage.
However, I still couldn't bend or move my elbow, and bending it was extremely painful.
They mentioned that the ligaments and periosteum might be injured, only giving me a few strong painkillers and applying medication with a bandage for stabilization.
They advised that recovery would be gradual and suggested taking more medication (which felt like a sales pitch).

Two days later, I went to a clinic for an X-ray.
The technician said the bone had relocated and there were no signs of fractures, but due to the impact, two small bone fragments had been dislodged from the joint, which would be absorbed by the body.
I then took the X-ray to a traditional Chinese medicine clinic under the National Health Insurance, where they said I needed to wait for the swelling to subside before further treatment.
They prescribed some medications to promote blood circulation and reduce bruising, and I was advised to return for a follow-up in a week.

Currently, my arm is still immobilized and straight, unable to rotate.
There are also bruises appearing around my wrist and elbow joints, but I can move my fingers, although the range is limited due to swelling.
I hope that once the swelling goes down, my elbow will recover quickly.
Is there anything else I should check or pay attention to? Thank you!

Nán guā, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/05/08

Dr. Ye Qingnian reply Orthopedics

Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry.
I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestion: It is recommended to visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic for an examination.
Please have an orthopedic physician explain the details.
Wishing you safety and happiness~~

Reply Date: 2008/05/08

More Info

Elbow dislocation is a common injury that can occur due to trauma, such as a fall or a direct blow to the elbow. It involves the displacement of the bones that form the elbow joint, which can lead to pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. In your case, it seems that you have experienced a dislocation of the left elbow, and while the X-ray indicates that the bones have been repositioned correctly, there are still concerns regarding soft tissue injuries, such as ligament damage and possible bone fragments.

Recovery Process
1. Initial Care: After a dislocation, the immediate care typically involves immobilization of the joint to prevent further injury. This is often achieved using a splint or a brace. Ice application can help reduce swelling and pain.

2. Pain Management: It’s common to experience significant pain following an elbow dislocation. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort. If stronger medication was prescribed, it’s important to follow the doctor's recommendations.

3. Swelling and Bruising: Swelling is a normal response to injury. Elevating the arm and applying ice can help manage this. Bruising may also occur due to bleeding under the skin, which is typically absorbed by the body over time.

4. Physical Therapy: Once the swelling decreases and the pain is manageable, physical therapy is crucial for restoring function. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the elbow. It’s important to start with gentle movements and gradually increase intensity as tolerated.

5. Monitoring for Complications: Keep an eye out for signs of complications, such as increased pain, swelling, or changes in skin color. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

Long-term Care Tips
- Gradual Return to Activity: Avoid rushing back into activities that put stress on the elbow. Gradually reintroduce movements and exercises as advised by your healthcare provider or physical therapist.

- Strengthening Exercises: Once cleared by your doctor, incorporate strengthening exercises for the muscles around the elbow. This can help prevent future injuries and improve overall joint stability.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your recovery. They may recommend additional imaging studies, such as an MRI, if there are concerns about soft tissue injuries that are not resolving.

- Home Care: At home, continue to manage pain and swelling with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider regarding medication and activity restrictions.

Conclusion
In summary, while your X-ray indicates that the bones are in the correct position, the recovery process from an elbow dislocation can take time, especially if there are soft tissue injuries involved. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding immobilization, pain management, and rehabilitation. If you have any concerns about your recovery or if symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical attention. Your proactive approach to recovery will be key in regaining full function of your elbow.

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