Elbow Fracture
Elbow fractures come in several varieties. Some are more difficult to repair and rehab from than others. There is a common theme in the treatment. Stability, followed by early mobilization and physical therapy is paramount to a good result. An elbow will never be "like new" after some of these injuries. My goal is to minimize the disability.
1-14 days: Keep incision covered while bathing. Early passive ROM unless otherwise noted. Ice three times daily, 20 minutes a day. No NSAIDs or nicotine products. No weightbearing or lifting. ROM of shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand as tolerated.
2-6 weeks: Begin directed PT. This is not a "no pain, no gain" sort of therapy. A special relationship between therapist is very important for optimal outcome. Focus on obtaining full extension. It is imperative that home PT be performed a minimum of three times daily, preferably more frequently. No weightbearing or lifting. Continue ice. May shower normally without protecting incision.
6-12 weeks: Continue directed PT. ROM will progressively improve. May initiate weight bearing activities.
3-6 months: The more simple elbow fractures will have improved significantly, maybe to the point of not being noticed. More significant fractures will continue to have some issues with stiffness. Continued ROM therapies will be important.
6-12 months: Continue eeking out the final degrees of ROM. Even if it is hard to see the results, keep working. Elbow ROM improves up to one year after surgery.
1-14 days: Keep incision covered while bathing. Early passive ROM unless otherwise noted. Ice three times daily, 20 minutes a day. No NSAIDs or nicotine products. No weightbearing or lifting. ROM of shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand as tolerated.
2-6 weeks: Begin directed PT. This is not a "no pain, no gain" sort of therapy. A special relationship between therapist is very important for optimal outcome. Focus on obtaining full extension. It is imperative that home PT be performed a minimum of three times daily, preferably more frequently. No weightbearing or lifting. Continue ice. May shower normally without protecting incision.
6-12 weeks: Continue directed PT. ROM will progressively improve. May initiate weight bearing activities.
3-6 months: The more simple elbow fractures will have improved significantly, maybe to the point of not being noticed. More significant fractures will continue to have some issues with stiffness. Continued ROM therapies will be important.
6-12 months: Continue eeking out the final degrees of ROM. Even if it is hard to see the results, keep working. Elbow ROM improves up to one year after surgery.