Definition
Definition
An elbow sprain is stretching or tearing of the ligaments that stabilize the elbow. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that cross joints and connect bones to each other.
The ElbowCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
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Causes
Causes
Elbow sprains may be caused by:
- Forced twisting of the arm
- Falling on an outstretched arm
- A blow to the elbow
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase your risk of an elbow sprain include:
- Playing certain sports, such as gymnastics or baseball
- Poor coordination
- Poor balance
- Inadequate flexibility and strength in muscles and ligaments
- Loose joints or connective tissue disorders
Symptoms
Symptoms
Elbow sprain may cause:
- Pain, tenderness, and swelling around the elbow
- Redness, warmth, or bruising around the elbow
- Limited ability to move the elbow
- Pain when moving the elbow
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and how you injured your elbow. Your elbow will be examined to assess the stability of the joint and the severity of the injury.
Imaging tests may include:
Elbow sprains are graded according to their severity:
- Grade 1—Some stretching with micro-tearing of ligament tissue.
- Grade 2—Partial tearing of ligament tissue.
- Grade 3—Complete tearing of ligament tissue.
Treatment
Treatment
Treatment includes:
Acute Care
Acute care may involve:
- Resting the elbow
- Avoiding activities that cause pain or put stress on the elbow
- Icing the elbow to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Using over-the-counter, topical, or prescription pain relievers
Pain Relief Medications
To manage pain, your doctor may advise:
- Over-the-counter medication, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen
- Topical pain medication—creams or patches that are applied to the skin
- Prescription pain relievers
Note: Aspirin is not recommended for children with a current or recent viral infection. Check with your doctor before giving your child aspirin.
Recovery
Extra support may be needed to help protect, support, and keep your elbow in line while it heals. Supportive steps may include:
- Wearing a brace or sling
- Rehabilitation exercises advised by your doctor or physical therapist
- Surgery in some cases
Prevention
Prevention
Elbow sprains may not always be preventable. There are steps you can take to reduce your chance of getting an elbow sprain. These include:
- Wearing protective equipment and using proper technique while playing sports
- Keeping elbows and arms strong with regular exercises to absorb the energy of sudden physical stress
RESOURCES:
OrthoInfo—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.aaos.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org
References:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/Sprains_Strains/sprains_and_strains_ff.asp
Updated November 2014. Accessed June 18, 2015.
Sprains and strains: What’s the difference? American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Ortho Info website. Available at:
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00111
Updated October 2007. Accessed June 18, 2015.
10/26/2010 DynaMed’s Systematic Literature Surveillance https://dynamed.ebscohost.com/about/about-us : Massey T, Derry S, et al. Topical NSAIDs for acute pain in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010;(6):CD007402.
Last Updated: 9/30/2013