Elbow fracture: what to do after a fall and healing time

By Cristiano Antonino Last updated Mar 2, 2023

The radial capitellum fracture is the most common fracture of the elbow bones. This type of fracture is almost always the result of trauma, perhaps due to a fall; the radial capitulum is in fact the most proximal part of the radius that articulates in the elbow

Fracture of the elbow or radial capitulum after a fall

The trauma can be direct to the elbow, or indirect: this occurs when one falls and instinctively tries to protect oneself by putting one’s hands forward, and the trauma to the hand can affect the elbow joint.

This type of fracture, therefore, can happen to anyone, from the elderly to those who play sports.

In the latter case, it is people who participate in contact sports who are most at risk of an elbow fracture.

What to do after a fall?

After a fall involving the elbow, either directly or indirectly, the person first of all feels pain, and is often unable to move the forearm: this happens because the radius, through the capitate, slides on the ulna, and this joint allows the prone-supination of the forearm, the movement needed to turn a key or open a handle.

Swelling, however, is not always present.

After the injury, it is essential to immobilise the joint, even simply with a neck bandage, and then go to the emergency room, where an X-ray should be taken.

With the test, the extent of the damage suffered can be known immediately.

How is an elbow fracture treated?

The radial capitellum fracture can be compound or compound.

In the case of a compound fracture, treatment must be surgical.

Surgery is also valid if the fracture is associated with other, more complex elbow injuries.

In the case of a compound fracture, a conservative approach will suffice – although the specialist will indicate the most suitable solution.

Elbow fracture: how quickly does it heal?

The healing time for an elbow fracture is similar for both surgical and conservative treatment, because in both cases it depends on the biological healing of the bone.

Six to eight weeks after the injury, the patient can generally return to daily activities.

If the fracture is compound or the surgical reduction insufficient, there may be a limitation in prone-supination.

If the fracture is compound or surgery will result in anatomical reduction, recovery is often complete.

In the latter case, it is helpful not to keep the elbow locked, but to move the elbow and forearm as soon as possible to prevent joint stiffness.