Elbow Dislocation After A Fall

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Question:

Dear TAI Experts:

I fell and dislocated my right elbow. I am 67 and when I looked down where my arm should be, it was completely bent backwards, (when I looked over my shoulder, I could see my forearm and hand). I am trying to find out what kind of physical therapy moves I should be making and how many reps, etc. I am out of cast and part time out of my brace. I would like to do physical therapy at home. I still cannot drive because of range of motion, and I am fearful.

Answer:

Although I am unable to provide you with specific information on your elbow without doing an examination, I can provide you with some general information. When a significant injury occurs to a joint, there is often some ligament and muscle/tendon damage that occurs. Rehabilitation after surgery may be necessary to restore normal range of motion and to improve the stability of the joint by strengthening the surrounding muscles. A proper exercise program can be easily performed at home independently, however, it is most beneficial if specific exercises are given to target muscles that are found to be weak during the examination process.

An Orthopedic physical therapist is qualified to assess the elbow joint and can provide a specific strengthening exercise program to address areas of weakness.

Brent McLeod PT, DPT