An elbow sprain is stretching or tearing of the ligaments that stabilize the elbow. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that cross joints and connect bones to each other.
Causes
Elbow sprains may be caused by:
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease, condition, or injury.
Risk factors for an elbow sprain:
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Playing certain sports, such as gymnastics
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Poor coordination
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Poor balance
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Inadequate flexibility and strength in muscles and ligaments
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Loose joints
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
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Pain, tenderness, and swelling around the elbow
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Redness, warmth, or bruising around the elbow
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Limited ability to move the elbow
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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:
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X-rays–a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially the bones. You may have an x-ray to make sure that no bones are broken.
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MRI scan–a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the body. You might have a scan to see if a ligament has torn completely (but rarely needed).
Elbow sprains are graded according to their severity.
Treatment
Treatment includes:
Rest–Avoid using your injured arm.
Ice–Apply ice or a cold pack to the elbow for 15-20 minutes, four 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 (eg, Ace bandage). This will limit swelling and support your elbow. Be careful not to wrap your elbow too tightly, which could compromise the circulation.
Medication–Take one of the following drugs to help reduce inflammation and pain:
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Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
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Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
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Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
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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 the range of motion and strength in your elbow as recommended by your healthcare professional.
Surgery–Surgery is not needed to repair an elbow sprain. However, rarely, surgery may be needed to repair a ligament that is torn completely.
Prevention
Elbow sprains usually occur from accidents that cannot be prevented.
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://www.aaos.org
The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine
http://www.sportsmed.org
References:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://www.aaos.org.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/.
Sports Injuries: Basic Principles of Prevention and Care. Blackwell Scientific Publications; 1993.
