It is when the capitulum, a rounded part of the distal humerus, gets fractured where it meets the radial head in the elbow.

Usually occurs from a fall onto an outstretched arm or a direct hit to the elbow.

Symptoms are pain, swelling, reduced motion range, and tenderness around the outer elbow.

Diagnosed through X-rays, sometimes CT scans are needed for more detail.

Yes, it can be serious since it impacts joint function and alignment.

Treatments can include immobilization for minor fractures and surgery for bigger or displaced ones.

Not all, but surgery is typically needed for unstable or displaced fractures to fix the joint.

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is a common method to align and hold the fracture with screws or plates.

Initial healing might take 6 to 8 weeks, but getting back to normal may take several months.

Yes, physical therapy is vital to rebuild strength and mobility in the elbow.

Risks can include stiffness, limited motion range, arthritis, and joint instability.

Movement might be hard because of pain and swelling, but gentle movement might be advised after surgery.

Pain can be handled with medication from your doctor, plus ice packs and rest.

Generally, either general or regional anesthesia is used for the procedure.

Yes, the arm is usually immobilized with a splint or cast initially for healing.

Therapy often starts a few weeks post-treatment once healing begins.

Yes, it might result in long-term problems such as chronic pain and arthritis if not treated right.

Raise the arm, use ice packs, and take anti-inflammatory meds as advised by your doctor.

Stay away from activities that put stress on the elbow until it’s healed.

Yes, some scarring is likely from surgery, though attempts are made to keep scars minimal.

Regular follow-ups are necessary to check healing and adjust treatments.

Possible complications include nerve damage, infection, or improper healing of the fracture.

Driving is not advised until adequate movement and strength have returned. elbow function and have gotten the go-ahead from your doctor.

Lots of people do get full motion back with the right care and therapy, but some might have some stiffness left.

You will likely do range of motion, stretching, and strengthening exercises in physiotherapy.

Stick to your treatment plan, go to physiotherapy, eat healthy foods, and don’t smoke.

Yes, non-surgical options include casting and careful watching, especially for non-displaced fractures.

Good nutrition, not smoking, and sticking to rehab plans are helpful.

Surgery usually helps in properly aligning the joint surface for the best elbow function.

Therapy will aim to restore motion, strength, and use of the arm.

Foods high in protein, as well as calcium and vitamin D, are good for bone healing.

Moving early with guidance and doing physiotherapy exercises can help prevent stiffness.

Warning signs might be ongoing pain, swelling, less motion, and visible deformity.

Yes, children can get these fractures and usually need specialized care.

Some supports might be recommended during certain activities for joint protection.

Numbness can happen because of swelling, but if it lasts too long, it should be checked for nerve issues.

It depends on your job; office roles may allow for a quicker return than hands-on jobs.

Some non-displaced fractures may not need a cast and can be treated with slings or functional braces.

ORIF is a surgery to directly align and stabilize the fracture with hardware.

You can return to sports usually after full healing and rehabilitation with your doctor’s approval.

Possible options include further surgery or more therapy to fix problems like malunion or stiffness.

Smoking can slow healing and raises complication risks due to reduced blood flow.

Yes, repetitive stress can weaken the joint and make it more likely to fracture.

Wearing protective gear during activities and doing strengthening exercises can help keep the joint healthy.

Some weakness may be present; any long-lasting issues should be treated through rehabilitation.

Using special devices and changing activities may be needed for independence while recovering.

Keep doing your exercises, use medications if necessary, and think about seeing a pain expert.

Activities that put a lot of stress on the elbow should be avoided until your therapist says it's okay.

With the right treatment, most people can look forward to a positive outcome, though some may have some limitations.