Elbow Flexion Issues After Fracture Surgery - Orthopedics

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After a fracture surgery, particularly involving the elbow, it is common to experience limitations in range of motion and discomfort. Your situation, involving a right radial fracture and subsequent surgery to repair a torn ligament and remove bone fragments, is not uncommon. Let’s break down your concerns regarding elbow flexion issues post-surgery.


Understanding Elbow Flexion Limitations
1. Post-Surgical Expectations: After surgery, it is typical for patients to experience stiffness and limited range of motion due to swelling, pain, and the healing process. The elbow joint, like any other joint, requires time to heal, and the surrounding muscles may also weaken due to disuse during recovery.
2. Current Range of Motion: You mentioned that you can only flex your elbow to 90 degrees. This is a common limitation after such surgeries. The goal is to gradually increase this range through rehabilitation exercises. However, pushing too hard can lead to pain and further complications, so it’s crucial to follow a structured rehabilitation program.

3. Pain and Discomfort: The sensation of the plate feeling "stuck" or causing discomfort is also not unusual. The presence of hardware (like a titanium plate) can sometimes lead to a sensation of tightness or pressure, especially if there is inflammation in the area.

Rehabilitation and Recovery
1. Physical Therapy: Continuing with physical therapy is essential. A therapist can guide you through specific exercises designed to improve flexibility and strength without risking further injury. They may use modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and swelling.

2. Home Exercises: In addition to professional therapy, you can perform gentle range-of-motion exercises at home. These might include:
- Passive Flexion: Using your other hand to assist in bending the elbow gently.

- Active-Assisted Flexion: Using a towel or strap to help pull the arm into a flexed position.

- Stretching: Gentle stretching of the forearm and upper arm muscles can also help.

3. Gradual Progression: Aim to gradually increase your elbow flexion. It’s important to listen to your body; if you experience significant pain, you may need to adjust the intensity or frequency of your exercises.


Surgical Considerations
1. Need for Hardware Removal: The decision to remove the titanium plate often depends on the level of discomfort and the degree of healing. If the plate is causing significant pain or limiting your range of motion, discussing the possibility of removal with your orthopedic surgeon may be warranted. However, many patients live comfortably with the hardware in place.

2. Long-Term Outlook: Many patients can regain near-normal function after elbow fractures, but this can take time. Factors such as age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation can influence recovery.
3. Monitoring Progress: Regular follow-ups with your orthopedic surgeon are crucial. They can assess your healing through physical examinations and imaging if necessary. If you notice any sudden changes in pain or function, it’s important to report these to your doctor.


Conclusion
In summary, while your current range of motion is limited, there is potential for improvement with continued rehabilitation. It’s essential to work closely with your healthcare providers to develop a tailored rehabilitation plan that addresses your specific needs. If discomfort from the hardware persists, discussing the option of removal with your surgeon could be beneficial. Remember, recovery from such injuries is often a gradual process, and patience is key.