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This information will guide you through the next 6 weeks of your rehabilitation. Use the information below to gain a better understanding of your injury and what can be done to maximise your recovery.
You have sustained a dislocation of your elbow with an associated fracture.
| Healing: |
This injury normally takes 6 weeks to heal. |
| Pain and numbness: |
Take pain killers as prescribed. It is important that you make sure you can always wiggle your fingers whilst in the plaster and that you have full sensation to your fingers. If at any time you lose sensation or movement of your fingers you should immediately return to A&E to have your plaster checked. |
| Using your arm: | You have been placed in a temporary backslab (plaster) in A&E and given a sling. You should try to do gentle exercises described below. |
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Follow up:
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You will see an Upper Limb Specialist 7-10 days after your injury. They will remove the temporary cast and examine your elbow. Depending on this examination you may be fitted with another cast or brace and you may need further x-rays. The specialist will talk you through the next stage of your rehabilitation. If you have not received an appointment letter within one week, please contact the hospital appointment line. |
If you are worried that you are unable to follow this rehabilitation plan, or have any questions, then please phone the Fracture Care Team for advice.
Or, if you are experiencing pain or symptoms, other than at the site of the original injury or surrounding area, please get in touch using the telephone or e-mail details at the top of this letter.
What to expect
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Weeks since injury |
Rehabilitation plan |
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0-2 |
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2+ |
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Smoking advice
Medical evidence suggests that smoking prolongs fracture healing time. In extreme cases it can stop healing altogether. It is important that you consider this information with relation to your recent injury. Stopping smoking during the healing phase of your fracture will help ensure optimal recovery from this injury.
For advice on smoking cessation and local support available, please refer to the following website: http://smokefree.nhs.uk or discuss this with your GP.
Exercises
Start these exercises as soon as possible and do them 5-6 times a day:
Finger and wrist flexion and extension
Open and close your hand as shown 10-15 times.
Then move your wrist up and down 10-15 times.
After a few days, hold a soft ball/ball of socks. Squeeze the ball as hard as possible without pain.
Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 10 times.
After your consultant appointment
Ask your consultant if you can start these exercises. They can be done 5-6 times a day if the consultant thinks you are ready.
Elbow Bend to Straighten
Bend and straighten your elbow so you feel a mild to moderate stretch. You can use your other arm to assist if necessary. Do not push into pain.
Forearm Rotations
Put your elbow at your side. Bend it to 90 degrees. Slowly rotate your palm up and down until you feel a mild to moderate stretch. You can use your other arm to assist if necessary. Do not push into pain.
Repeat 10-15 times provided there is no increase in symptoms.
Keep the arm elevated in the sling or on pillows if more comfortable.