Elbow Injuries and Humorous Fractures

• Injuries to the elbow area include bruises, tears of ligaments or tendons, sprains and fractures. Fractures that affect the elbow can occur in the humorous, the ulna, or the radius.
  
  

Causes

• Most elbow injuries experienced by children are from an acute injury. Activities such as gymnastics, football and accidents like falling from jungle gyms are common ways a child might experience an elbow injury.
  
  

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain typically is sudden in an elbow injury. The child might be unable to bend or straighten her elbow and swelling can appear immediately.
  
  

Diagnosis

• If a ligament or tendon tear is believed to have occurred, the doctor will order an MRI. If he thinks there might be a fracture, he will order an X-ray.
  
  

Treatment

• The treatment of an elbow injury depends upon location and severity. A minor sprain or partial tear will need rest, immobilization and ice. A cast or split is used in elbow fractures or severe sprains. Surgery might be necessary to place pins or screws.