Pain | Physiotherapy for a fracture of the radial head

Pain

The pain of a fracture of the radial head can be very severe. Particularly in the area of the radial head, pronounced pain under pressure can quickly indicate the fracture. Rotation of the forearm can also increase the pain significantly.

Depending on the type of fracture and if other tissues and bones are involved, this also has an influence on the extent of the pain. Affected persons are thus severely restricted in their movement, and this immobility is particularly caused by bruising in the joint. The pain from a fracture of the radial head can often radiate into the forearm and into the hand, making it very stressful for the patient.

Plaster cast

In the case of a radial head fracture, the application of a plaster bandage to immobilize the joint is usually still used. With the help of the plaster, the arm is fixed in the elbow joint in 90° flexion. How long the cast must be worn depends primarily on the severity of the injury. As a rule, however, immobilization for 1-2 weeks (or 3-4 weeks for complex fractures) is sufficient to stabilize the fracture so that the joint can be mobilized. In many cases, the application of a plaster bandage is already completely avoided and an orthosis is chosen as an alternative stabilization method.

Summary

Overall, physiotherapy has a high priority in the follow-up treatment of a radial head fracture. The therapy options available provide optimal support for the joint in its healing process, so that complete rehabilitation is possible in most cases.It is important that doctors, therapists and patients work closely together and that patients generally follow the instructions of the doctor and physiotherapist so that the joint cannot develop late damage and healing can proceed without danger.