Radial head fracture

A radial head fracture is a break in the smaller bone in your forearm (radius ). There are two bones in your forearm. The radius, or radial bone, is the bone on the side of your thumb. The fracture is located at the head of the bone, which is at the elbow joint. This usually happens because of an injury, such as falling on an outstretched arm.

What are the causes?

This condition is commonly caused by falling and landing on an outstretched arm.

What increases the risk?

This condition is more likely to develop in:

• Women.

• People who are 30–40 years old.

What are the signs or symptoms?

Symptoms of this condition may include:

• Swelling of the elbow joint and pain on the outside of the elbow. Pain and difficulty when bending or straightening the elbow.

• Pain and difficulty when turning the palm of the hand up or down with the elbow bent.

How is this treated?

Treatment for this condition includes resting, icing, and raising (elevating ) the injured area above the level of your heart. You may be given medicines to help relieve pain.

Treatment varies depending on the type of fracture you have.

• If you have a Type 1 fracture, you may be given a splint or sling to keep your arm and elbow from moving (immobilization ) for up to 5 days.

• If you have a Type 2 fracture, treatment varies depending on how much displacement there is. You may be given a splint or sling to keep your arm and elbow from moving (immobilization ) for up to 5 days. If the displacement is more severe, you may need surgery. Surgery may include: Removing bone pieces. Putting pins or screws into the head of the radius to hold it in place so it heals correctly. Removing the entire radial head. The elbow will still be able to function normally.

• If you have a Type 3 fracture, you will usually need surgery to have bone pieces removed. The entire radial head may need to be removed if the damage is severe.

Follow these instructions at home:

If you have a splint or sling:

• Wear the splint or sling as told by your health care provider. Remove it only as told by your health care provider.

• Loosen the splint if your fingers tingle, become numb, or turn cold and blue. Keep the splint or sling clean and dry.

Managing pain, stiffness, and swelling

If directed, apply ice to the injured area.

• Put ice in a plastic bag.

• Place a towel between your skin and the bag. Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times a day.

• Move your fingers often to avoid stiffness and to lessen swelling.

• Elevate the injured area above the level of your heart while you are sitting or lying down. Driving

• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking prescription pain medicine.

• Ask your health care provider when it is safe to drive if you have a cast, splint, or sling on your arm.