It is a break at the radial head, the rounded end of the radius near the elbow.

Common causes include falling on an extended hand or a direct hit to the elbow.

Symptoms are pain, swelling, bruising at the elbow, and trouble rotating the forearm.

It is diagnosed through a physical exam and X-ray imaging of the elbow.

Small fractures may heal with rest, but serious fractures might need surgery.

Treatment can involve rest with a splint, physical therapy, and possibly surgery for worse cases.

No, surgery is generally for displaced or unstable fractures or those with many pieces.

Surgery may involve repairing the bone with screws or plates or replacing the radial head.

Recovery can take from 6 weeks to a few months, depending on severity and treatment.

Yes, physical therapy is often necessary to regain movement and strength.

Movement may be painful at first, but gentle movement is recommended to avoid stiffness.

Normal activity resumes in a few months, depending on healing.

Complications may include stiffness, pain, arthritis, or decreased range of motion.

Yes, stiffness is typical but usually improves over time with therapy.

They keep the elbow still to help the fracture heal correctly.

Therapy often begins a few weeks post-injury, once pain and swelling lessen.

They are classified by the Mason system, from Type I (not displaced) to Type III (comminuted and displaced).

A Type I fracture is not displaced, meaning the bone is cracked but stays in position.

It is best to wait until you regain enough movement and comfort before driving.

Pain can be managed with NSAIDs or prescribed medications from your doctor.

Keep the arm elevated, use ice, and take anti-inflammatory meds to reduce swelling.

Stay away from heavy lifting and activities straining the elbow until your doctor says it’s okay.

It depends on your job; you may need adjustments or time off, especially for manual work. labor.

Yes, it is important to have follow-up visits to check if healing is going well and to look for any problems.

Some numbness can happen because of swelling, but if it lasts, you need to see your doctor.

Yes, follow-up X-rays are needed to make sure the fracture is healing as it should.

Moving your elbow gently, as your doctor allows, and doing physical therapy can help with this.

Keep it as your doctor says, keep it dry, and avoid heavy activities.

Contact your healthcare provider if pain increases, as this may mean there are issues.

Exercises could be gentle bending and extending of the elbow, as well as turning, as your therapist suggests.

Light weights may be okay later on, but only if a professional says it's okay.

Many people regain full motion, but some might have some stiffness or limits.

Eating foods high in calcium and vitamin D can help bone healing.

Problems like being out of line, not being kept still enough, or weak bone health can stop proper healing.

Less pain and swelling, plus better movement, are signs that you are healing, confirmed by follow-ups and X-rays.

Yes, smoking can slow down healing and raise the chances of complications.

Surgery can involve placing screws, using plates, or replacing the radial head.

It's rare, but nerve damage can occur; if you have ongoing numbness or tingling, you should check with a doctor.

It usually comes from acute trauma, but repetitive stress can make already weak bones worse.

Yes, it’s very important to follow your doctor’s guidelines for movement and protection to prevent getting hurt again.

Radial head excision means removing the radial head, usually for badly broken bones.

Yes, occupational therapy can help recover daily living skills, especially after serious fractures.

A splint keeps the elbow still to help with proper alignment and healing.

Surgery typically has a good success rate, especially if followed by proper rehab.

Yes, children can get this fracture, and care may change due to their growing bone structure.

Misalignment can lead to pain and function issues, possibly needing more surgery to fix it.

You should ease back into sports only after your doctor says it’s okay and you are completely healed.

It assists patients in getting back the use of their arm for daily tasks and job needs.

Wear protective gear, strengthen nearby muscles, and keep bones healthy.