Introduction
A rupture of the capsule ruptures the capsule surrounding the joint, primarily due to external force, but also due to other causes. All functional parts of every joint in the body are surrounded by joint capsules. The capsule consists of an outer shell, which is often very robust and resistant to pressure and tension, and an inner so-called “synovial membrane”.
Inside the capsule are the bony parts of the joint, the joint cartilage, individual ligaments and a synovial fluid. This serves the purpose of filling the joint cavity, supplying the cartilage with nutrients, lubricating the joint surfaces and making movements in the joint smoother. A capsule tear can be accompanied by numerous concomitant injuries and symptoms and cause severe pain. Injury to the joint capsule in the elbow severely restricts the function of the joint. Consequential diseases can also result from the injury.
How do you treat a capsule tear at the elbow?
The treatment of the capsule rupture is initially based on 4 acute measures, which should be applied within the first 48 hours after the injury. These are strict protection, compression of the joint from the outside, sufficient cooling, and elevation of the arm. Many know this application also under the name PECH rule: PAUSE ICE Compression high camps These measures reduce the blood circulation of the joint and thus the extent of the effusion and swelling.
In addition, painkillers from the NSAID group are often used. Their most important representatives are “Diclofenac” and “Ibuprofen“. Surgery only has a therapeutic advantage in cases of severe injuries involving the bone.
A particularly severe bruise can be relieved by a short puncture with a needle. However, this is rather rare in the case of injuries to the elbow. The joint can be immobilised with the aid of a splint.
Both in the acute phase of the capsule rupture and in the following weeks of healing, the protection of the joint is the most important therapeutic factor. In this way, consequential damage, malpositioning and also pain can be considerably reduced. In addition to immobilization, the splint can also apply compression to the joint.
The splint should be worn until the pain has subsided and the joint capsule has healed sufficiently. A bandage can also support the healing process by immobilizing and compressing the elbow joint. In contrast to a splint, however, the bandage does not achieve complete immobilization of the joint. The brace proves to be particularly practical during the following weeks of healing and rehabilitation, as it allows for minimal movement in the joint and is easy to change and clean. Joint supports can also be used preventively in sports to prevent and dampen rapid movements and violent external influences.
All articles in this series:
