Elbow Sprains
An elbow sprain is stretching or tearing of the ligaments that support the elbow. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones to each other.
Causes
Elbow sprains may be caused by:
- Forced twisting of the arm
- Falling on an outstretched arm
- A blow to the elbow
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease, condition or injury.
- Playing sports
- Poor coordination
- Poor balance
- Inadequate flexibility and strength in muscles and ligaments
- Loose joints
Symptoms
Symptoms of elbow sprain include:
- Pain, tenderness, and swelling around the elbow
- Redness, warmth, or bruising around the elbow
- Limited ability to move the elbow
- Pain when moving the elbow
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and how you injured your elbow. The doctor will examine your elbow to assess the stability of the joint and the severity of the injury.
Tests may include:
- X-rays - to make sure that no bones are broken
- MRI scan - to see if a ligament has torn completely (rarely needed)
Elbow sprains are graded according to their severity:
- Grade I - Stretching and some microtearing of ligament tissue
- Grade II - Partial tearing of ligament tissue. Mild instability of the joint
- Grade III - Severe or complete tearing of ligament tissue. Significant instability of the joint
Treatment
Treatment measures include:
- Rest - Avoid using your injured arm.
- Ice - Apply ice or a cold pack to the elbow for 15-20 minutes, 4 times a day for several days. This helps reduce pain and swelling. Wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel. Do not apply the ice directly to your skin.
- Compression - Wrap your elbow in an elastic compression bandage (e.g., Ace bandage). This will limit swelling and support your elbow.
- Medication - Take one of the following drugs to help reduce inflammation and pain:
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
- Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Aspirin
- Sling - You may need to wear a sling to immobilize your arm and elbow.
- Cast - If you have a severe sprain, your doctor may recommend a cast or splint for 2-3 weeks.
- Rehabilitation Exercises - Begin exercises to restore flexibility, range of motion, and strength in your elbow as recommended by your health care professional.
- Surgery - Surgery is not needed to repair an elbow sprain. However, surgery may be needed to repair a ligament that is torn completely.
Prevention
Elbow sprains usually occur from accidents that cannot be prevented.
