Elbow Fractures

Elbow fractures are injuries that involve a break in one or more of the bones that form the elbow joint. In particular, these fractures can affect the humerus, radius, or ulna and may impact elbow stability, motion, and overall arm function.

Therefore, prompt evaluation and treatment by an orthopedic specialist are essential to ensure proper healing, restore movement, and prevent long-term complications.

What Are Elbow Fractures?

The elbow joint is made up of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the radius, and the ulna (forearm bones). An elbow fracture occurs when any of these bones is broken.

Common types of elbow fractures include:

• Radial head fractures – involving the top of the radius
• Olecranon fractures – involving the tip of the elbow
• Distal humerus fractures – involving the lower end of the upper arm bone

Fractures may be simple or complex, and some may involve the joint surface, affecting movement and stability.

Common Symptoms of Elbow Fractures

Symptoms typically occur immediately after injury and may include:

• Severe elbow pain
• Swelling and bruising
• Tenderness to touch
• Difficulty or inability to move the elbow
• Visible deformity in more severe cases
• Numbness or tingling if nerves are affected

For this reason, if you experience significant elbow pain after an injury, prompt orthopedic evaluation is recommended.

Causes and Risk Factors

Elbow fractures are usually caused by trauma or force. For example, common causes include:

• Falls onto an outstretched hand
• Direct blows to the elbow
• Sports injuries
• Motor vehicle accidents

Risk factors may include:

• Osteoporosis or decreased bone density
• Participation in high-impact activities
• Previous injuries

Ultimately, an orthopedic specialist at UTHealth Houston can evaluate your injury and determine the appropriate treatment.

How Are Elbow Fractures Diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a physical examination and a review of how the injury occurred. Orthopedic providers will assess pain, swelling, alignment, and nerve function.

Imaging studies may include:

• X-rays to confirm the fracture and assess alignment
• CT scans for complex fractures
• MRI in some cases to evaluate soft tissue injuries

Together, these tests help determine the severity of the fracture and guide treatment planning.

Elbow Fracture Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatments

Some fractures that are stable and well-aligned may be treated without surgery, including:

• Immobilization with a splint or brace
• Pain management
• Activity restriction during healing
• Early motion exercises when appropriate

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be recommended for fractures that are displaced, unstable, or involve the joint.

Surgical options may include:

• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using plates and screws
• Repair of associated ligament or soft tissue injuries
• Joint reconstruction in complex cases

The goal of surgery is to restore alignment, stabilize the fracture, and preserve elbow function.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

You should seek immediate orthopedic care if you experience:

• Severe elbow pain after injury
• Swelling or visible deformity
• Difficulty moving the elbow
• Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers

Early treatment is critical to prevent complications such as stiffness, nerve injury, or long-term loss of motion.

Expert Orthopedic Care at UTHealth Houston Orthopedics

Our orthopedic hand surgeons can provide comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment, from conservative care to advanced surgical options. If you’re experiencing wrist pain, hand numbness, or tingling, you can request an appointment to receive expert care and lasting relief.