Expert Orthopedic Care

Elbow Fracture: Expert Treatment for Broken Elbow Injuries

Comprehensive treatment for elbow fractures including olecranon fractures, radial head fractures, and distal humerus fractures. Dr. Daniel Feghhi provides personalized care to help you regain full function and mobility.

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Board Certified
Fellowship Trained
15+ Years Experience
Man with elbow pain at home
Understanding the Condition

What Is an Elbow Fracture?

An elbow fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that form the elbow joint. This can include the olecranon (tip of the elbow), radius (forearm bone), or humerus (upper arm bone).

Olecranon Fracture

A break in the olecranon, the bony point of the elbow. This is one of the most common elbow fractures, often caused by a direct blow or falling onto the elbow.

Radial Head Fracture

A break in the radial head, the top of the radius bone where it meets the elbow. This type of fracture often occurs from falling onto an outstretched arm.

Distal Humerus Fracture

A break in the lower end of the humerus bone. These fractures are less common but can be more complex to treat, especially when they involve the joint surface.

Common Causes of Elbow Fractures

Falls (especially onto an outstretched arm), direct blows to the elbow, sports injuries, and motor vehicle accidents are the most common causes of elbow fractures.

Recognition & Diagnosis

Recognizing an Elbow Fracture

Understanding the symptoms and getting proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.

Common Symptoms

  • Severe pain in and around the elbow, especially when moving or touching
  • Swelling and bruising around the elbow joint
  • Visible deformity or bone protruding through the skin (open fracture)
  • Inability to straighten or bend the elbow
  • Numbness or tingling in the fingers or hand
  • Tenderness when touching the elbow area

Diagnostic Methods

  • Physical Examination: Dr. Feghhi will evaluate swelling, deformity, range of motion, and nerve/vascular function
  • X-Rays: The primary imaging tool to confirm fracture location and type
  • CT Scan: Provides detailed images of complex fractures for surgical planning
  • MRI: Used if soft tissue damage is suspected or to assess ligament injuries
  • 血管检查: Checking pulses and blood flow to ensure no vascular injury
Treatment Options

Treatment for Elbow Fractures

Dr. Feghhi offers comprehensive treatment options ranging from conservative management to advanced surgical interventions.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments

Casting & Splinting

Immobilization of the elbow with a cast or splint to allow the bone to heal properly.

Pain Management

NSAIDs and other pain medications to manage discomfort during the healing process.

Physical Therapy

Targeted exercises to maintain range of motion and strengthen surrounding muscles.

Follow-up Imaging

Regular X-rays to monitor healing progress and ensure proper bone alignment.

Surgical Treatments

Open Reduction & Internal Fixation (ORIF)

Surgical realignment of bone fragments with plates, screws, or pins to stabilize the fracture.

  • Precise bone alignment
  • Early mobility possible
  • Stable fixation

Elbow Arthroscopy

Minimally invasive procedure to visualize and treat intra-articular fractures using small incisions.

  • Smaller incisions
  • Faster recovery
  • Less scarring

Radial Head Replacement

For severely comminuted radial head fractures, the damaged bone is replaced with a prosthetic implant.

  • Restores elbow function
  • Prevents arthritis
  • Long-lasting results
Recovery Timeline

Elbow Fracture Recovery

Recovery time varies depending on the type and severity of the fracture, as well as the treatment approach.

1

Initial Healing

Weeks 1-6

  • Cast or splint immobilization
  • Rest and elevation
  • Pain management
  • Protect the fracture site
2

Early Motion

Weeks 6-12

  • Begin gentle range of motion
  • Remove cast/splint (if applicable)
  • Physical therapy starts
  • Light daily activities resume
3

Strengthening

Months 3-6

  • Intensive physical therapy
  • Strengthening exercises
  • Gradual return to activities
  • Build endurance
4

Full Recovery

Months 6-12

  • Return to full activities
  • Complete strength restoration
  • Sports-specific training
  • Final rehabilitation

Post-Surgical Recovery Timeline

For surgical patients, full recovery typically takes 6-12 months depending on the complexity of the fracture and individual healing rates. Dr. Feghhi will provide a personalized tailored recovery plan to your specific condition.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about elbow fractures.

How long does it take for an elbow fracture to heal?

Will I need surgery for my elbow fracture?

When can I return to work after an elbow fracture?

What are the risks of not treating an elbow fracture?

Can I prevent elbow fractures?

Will I regain full range of motion after an elbow fracture?

Ready to Get Treatment for Your Elbow Fracture?

Don't let an elbow fracture limit your life. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Daniel Feghhi today and get back to an active, pain-free lifestyle.

Schedule Your Consultation Call Us: (973) 945-5055
Our Locations

Visit Us in New Jersey

Dr. Feghhi sees patients at multiple convenient locations throughout New Jersey.

Dover

400 W Blackwell St
Dover, NJ 07801

Phone: (973) 945-5055

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East Brunswick

620 Cranbury Rd, Suite 110
East Brunswick, NJ 08816

Phone: (732) 955-8865

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Elizabeth

453 Elizabeth Ave
Elizabeth, NJ 07201

Phone: (908) 966-5550

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Hackensack

25-15 Queens Plaza S
Long Island City, NY 11101

Phone: (718) 870-6200

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Wayne

2035 Hamburg Turnpike, Suite C
Wayne, NJ 07470

Phone: (973) 696-7600

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Need Help Choosing a Location?

Our team can help you find the most convenient location for your needs.

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