Symptoms

Since a torn ligament at the elbow is accompanied by a more or less long period of rest of the joint, depending on the selected therapy method, this results in a loss of muscle strength and mobility. The aim of the exercises is to strengthen, stabilize and mobilize the elbow joint. Depending on the type and extent of the injury, different exercises are available.

The therapist will decide which of them to use individually. If a torn ligament occurs at the elbow joint, the affected person usually notices this immediately by shooting pain into the elbow joint. This leads to the fact that movements are no longer possible or only limited.

Often a torn ligament at the elbow occurs as a result of trauma in which other structures in the elbow joint are damaged. Further symptoms can therefore be a more or less pronounced swelling of the joint and redness, which indicate possible inflammatory processes. The injury can restrict the elbow joint’s mobility. Due to the severity of the symptoms, a visit to the doctor is therefore mandatory for those affected.

Elbow splint

An elbow splint is used when the injured joint has to be immobilized for a certain period of time. The splint protects the joint from external influences and ensures that the affected person does not subconsciously move the elbow incorrectly. This is particularly advantageous at night, as the healing process can progress undisturbed.

In contrast to a bandage, the splint sometimes restricts the joint very much in its mobility. This should also ensure a faster rehabilitation process. However, immobilization often results in a severe loss of muscle strength, which patients have to compensate for in the further course of rehabilitation.

Surgery – Do I need an operation?

If there is only a torn ligament at the elbow and no other structures are damaged, the injury usually heals well without surgical measures and with purely conservative therapy. However, since a torn ligament at the elbow is usually caused by external forces acting on the joint, further injuries such as bone fractures, splinters or tendon injuries and cartilage damage are usually present.Especially if these are very complicated or numerous, surgery is inevitable to ensure the stability of the joint and a smooth healing process without late complications. Depending on the type and extent of the injury, the elbow joint is then restored in an open operation or a minimally invasive procedure.

An existing torn ligament is then either sutured by the surgeon or the two ends of the ligament are brought closer together so that they can grow back together on their own. If necessary, the use of screws and plates can restore the elbow joint to its former stability. Postoperatively, it is important to start physiotherapeutic treatment as soon as possible to improve the duration of healing and the chances of full rehabilitation.