Sports Injury Info

Question - Radial Head Fracture

by Linda
(Tauranga, New Zealand)

This is not a sports injury, but 3 months ago I got hit by a reversing car. Once of my injuries was a radial head fracture to my right elbow. Even though the fracture should have healed by now I am having constant pain, clicking, catching, and a snapping sensation.

I have had about 10 sessions of physiotherapy to try to reach full extension, but this has not worked so I was referred to a specialist who just advised me to stop physiotherapy and it was going to take about six months to heal and just get on with life as best as I could. I am not entirely happy with this diagnosis and would appreciate any suggestions you may have.

Many thanks

Linda

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Question - Radial Head Fracture

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Aug 16, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		Radial head fractures...
by: Bart - SII

The problem with this type of fracture is the way the radial head has to move during elbow motion. When you move your forearm, turning your wrist over, the radial head must rotate within the joint. A fracutre usually significantly reduces this movement, causing problems with extension, as well as forearm pronation and supination (turning your hand over)

Did your PT involve any joint mobilizations or soft tissue massage around the radial head? This will often help return extension and decrease pain.

Sometimes, it is beneficial to stop therapy for a few weeks, take time to just live life, and let your motion come back naturally. However, it is a good idea to keep an eye on how you are doing and make sure to follow up in a few weeks if you are not improving.

4-6 months for recovery is a normal timeline for this injury.

Bart
Aug 18, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		RADIAL HEAD FRACTURE
by: LINDA

To Bart,

Firstly I would like to thank you for taking the time to answer my question.

My PT did apply soft tissue massage around the radial head. I have stopped physiotherapy for now and I am just going to let nature take its course and look forward to being completely recovered within the next few months.

Kind Regards,
Linda
Aug 20, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		Good Luck!
by: Bart - SII

You are very welcome!

Good luck with your continued recovery.

Bart

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