What is a radial head or neck fracture? How long does it take to recover? What factors can affect your recovery? Get answers to these questions and more in this detailed guide.

Understanding Radial Head or Neck Fractures

An elbow fracture, also known as a radial head or neck fracture, is a common injury that occurs when the bone at the top of the forearm (the radial head or neck) breaks. This type of fracture can happen due to a fall or impact on the elbow.

When you have a fracture, it’s not just the bone that’s affected – the surrounding soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves, are also injured. This can lead to a range of symptoms and complications that need to be addressed during the recovery process.

Recovery Times for Elbow Fractures

Typically, a radial head or neck fracture takes between 3 to 6 weeks to heal. However, it’s normal to experience aches and discomfort beyond this initial healing period, especially when you try to resume activities you haven’t done in a while. The area may also remain more sensitive for some time after the injury.

Factors That Can Affect Recovery

Several factors can influence the healing and recovery process for an elbow fracture. These include:

• Smoking: Smoking can negatively impact tissue healing and slow down the fracture recovery process. Quitting smoking during the healing phase can help ensure the best possible outcome.
• General Health: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, may slow down the healing process. Maintaining a healthy diet and staying active can support recovery.
• Medications: Some medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen, have been shown to delay fracture healing. Speak with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your medication.

What to Expect After an Elbow Fracture

After an elbow fracture, you can expect the following:

• Stiffness and Pain: Initially, your elbow will feel stiff and painful. However, it’s important to continue moving the joint, even if it hurts, to prevent it from becoming too stiff.
• Sling or Collar and Cuff: You may be given a sling or collar and cuff for pain relief, but it’s important to reduce the use of these as your pain improves to prevent the elbow from becoming too stiff.
• Pain Management: It’s normal to experience discomfort in the areas around the fracture, including other soft tissues and nearby joints. Pain can fluctuate and may persist even after the fracture has healed. Your local pharmacy can provide advice on managing pain.

Reducing Swelling and Bruising

Swelling is a natural part of the healing process, but excessive swelling can become uncomfortable and limit your movement. To help reduce swelling, you can try the following:

• Raise your arm above your heart when resting, using pillows for support.
• Keep the other joints in your hand or arm moving normally.
• Avoid too much rest or too much activity.
• Gently massage the swollen area.

Bruising is also common after a fracture and can be widespread, changing color as you recover.

Getting Back to Normal Activities

Returning to your normal activities, such as driving, work, and daily tasks, will depend on the type of work you do and your employer’s policies. Here are some general guidelines:

• Driving: Before driving, contact your insurance provider to ensure your injury does not affect your coverage. You must be able to perform an emergency stop or maneuver safely.
• Work: Your return to work may involve a phased approach or changed duties. You do not need to see a healthcare professional to return to work.
• Daily Activities: Avoid heavy lifting or weight-bearing activities for at least 6 weeks, until the fracture has fully healed. Gradually increase your activities as your pain allows.
• Sports and Contact Activities: Do not return to contact sports until at least 6 weeks after the injury and when you are pain-free during movement.

Reduced flexibility and strength may make some activities more challenging initially, but this will improve as you slowly build up to your usual routines.

Emotional and Fall-Prevention Considerations

It’s normal to experience frustration or low mood after an elbow fracture. As you gradually get back to your regular activities, your emotional well-being should improve.

Additionally, loss of confidence is common after a fracture. Seek advice about preventing falls to help regain your confidence and reduce the risk of future injuries.

Remember, the recovery process can vary from person to person, and it’s important to follow the guidance of your healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcome. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor or local pharmacy.