The elbow is a joint composed of ligaments, cartilage, and bone. A broken elbow is a break in the end of one of the bones at this joint. Treatment usually includes an x-ray to confirm the fracture, ice, casting, and sometimes surgery.

The three bones that meet at the elbow are the humerus, radius, and ulna. The humerus is the bone in the upper arm. The radius and ulna are the bones of the forearm. A break, or fracture, of one of those bones near the elbow joint is considered a broken elbow.

Symptoms of a broken elbow may include sudden severe pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and numbness of the fingers. It may be difficult to extend the arm at the elbow. Moving the elbow will probably be very painful.

As soon as possible after the injury, place ice on the elbow joint. This will help to decrease inflammation and control pain. Ice should be applied for 20 minutes then removed for 20 minutes. Leaving ice on for more than 20 minutes at a time can result in frostbite.

If a broken elbow is suspected, you should seek medical attention. An x-ray is generally used to verify that one of the bones is actually fractured. Breaks in the end of the humerus near the elbow are more common in children than in adults. The most common break is to the part of the ulna that cradles the end of the humerus in the elbow.

When a broken bone is confirmed, the treatment will be based on the location and severity of the break. Fractures of the ulna can occasionally be treated with a splint or a sling to immobilize the joint. Most will require casting to heal properly. Any movement within the fracture may necessitate surgery to put the bone back together.

A fracture that is displaced, or out of alignment, will need surgical intervention so that the elbow can bend and straighten. If bone fragments cut through the skin, surgery is required to thoroughly clean the area and to fix the fracture. Pins, screws, plates, or stitches may be used to hold the bone together. After surgery, a splint or cast will likely be needed to keep the arm immobile during healing.

After surgery, a patient may require physical therapy to regain an optimal range of motion in the elbow. The patient may not be able to straighten the joint fully. Compliance with physical therapy and performance of exercises at home will improve healing time and increase the potential for a full recovery.