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Radial Head Fracture

Description

Like other elbow fractures, radial head fractures commonly occur when using an outstretched arm to break the force of a fall. A radial head fracture is a break of the radial arm bone at the point nearest the elbow. Read on to learn more about how to recover from it.

Causes & Triggers

  • Falls (especially with outstretched arm)
  • Direct hit or blow
  • High-impact collision
  • Sports injuries

Signs & Symptoms

  • Apparent deformity or bone protrusion
  • Bruising
  • Limited or inability to move elbow
  • Numbness
  • Pain
  • Sensation of instability
  • Stiffness
  • Swelling
  • Tenderness

Tips & Treatment

  • Seek medical treatment after an elbow injury, especially if there’s a lot of pain or moving the elbow becomes difficult or impossible.
  • Radial head fracture accounts for nearly one-fourth of all elbow injuries.
  • This fracture commonly accompanies elbow dislocation.
  • Women are more likely than men to experience a radial head fracture.
  • Women and men ages 30 to 40 are more likely to experience it.
  • Non-surgical treatment may involve immobilizing the joint with a splint or sling, followed by prescribed physical therapy.
  • If the bone is out of place, surgical intervention may be necessary and may include the insertion of metal plates and screws.

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