When your elbow hyperextends it causes damage to your muscles tendons and soft tissue around the joint. It may also cause bone fractures. If you have a hyperextended elbow injury its important to get medical help right away. Your doctor will check your elbow’s range of motion and strength, and look for swelling or bruising. They will then order imaging scans, such as X-rays, MRI or CT scan to see any possible fractures and damage to the elbow joint.
After a professional physical exam your doctor will probably recommend that you take some time off from activities that require you to bend and straighten your elbow. This will give the joint a chance to rest and reduce any inflammation from over-extension. Visit this page la clinica for effective treatment of hyperextended elbow injuries.
Immediate treatment for a hyperextended elbow injury usually involves applying ice to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain. Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables in a cloth and place it on your elbow for 10-15 minutes every couple hours for the first few days after your injury. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can also be helpful.
Once the initial swelling has subsided your doctor will likely recommend you start a physical therapy regimen. Physical therapy can strengthen the muscles in your elbow and improve elbow movement and range of motion. It can also help prevent stiffness and other problems that may occur from long periods of immobility.
Physical therapy for a hyperextended elbow can be performed at home or in a clinic. Your physical therapist will design a specific treatment plan that will address your unique needs and goals. During your physical therapy your therapist will likely assess your range of motion strength and pain levels to determine the best course of treatment for you.
The RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) technique is an excellent way to treat most hyperextended elbow injuries. This is especially important in the first 24-48 hours after your injury. Ice helps to reduce swelling which can otherwise slow healing and lead to additional tissue damage.
A physical therapist will likely recommend using a forearm brace to support the elbow joint while you heal. It can be worn all day or just while you’re at work. Your therapist will show you how to properly use your brace and will provide exercises and other treatment techniques to speed up your recovery.
In severe cases, surgery may be recommended for your hyperextended elbow its typically only done when there is significant damage to the ligaments tendons and bones in the elbow joint. Surgery can be performed arthroscopically or through open surgery which both offer different benefits.
If you injure your elbow make sure to contact a physical therapist immediately for help. A PT will assess your injury and provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan that will help to restore your elbow’s function and reduce the risk of further complications. They’ll use a combination of manual therapy and exercise to guide your healing process.
