Delayed Recovery after Broken Elbow

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Question

Dear TAI Experts:

I broke my elbow 2 weeks ago when I fell on it. I broke the bone that connects to the wrist and causes it to turn. The Dr. kept it in a half cast for a week and now I am to wear a sling for 6 weeks and work on moving my arm. I have been moving my arm and wearing the sling some. I can only turn my wrist straight up and my arm will straighten out only about half way and then it hurts very bad and numbness shoots down my arm. Is this normal and will my elbow eventually straighten out and my wrist turn?

Answer

I am sorry to hear about your elbow fracture. Without seeing your x-rays and performing a physical exam I am unable to give you specific information on how long it is likely to take for you to get your motion back. Generally, I can tell you that elbow and wrist stiffness are very common after this sort of injury. The time in the cast is necessary for healing, but it also makes your joints stiff. The break itself can also cause some stiffness, depending on location. Improvement in motion can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Once the cast has been removed, a licensed physical therapist or certified hand therapist (CHT) can help you regain the motion in your arm safely and as quickly as possible. I suggest you see a therapist recommended by your surgeon to improve the motion in your arm.

Ben Bleazard, PT, DPT