(03) 8415 1907
(03) 8415 1907
(03) 8415 1907
(03) 8415 1907
(03) 8415 1907

Elbow Conditions

Elbow Fracture

Elbow Fracture: causes, symptoms and treatment options

Elbow fractures occur when one or more of the bones forming the elbow joint break following trauma or injury. Because the elbow is a complex joint responsible for both bending and rotation of the arm, fractures can significantly affect movement, strength and function if not appropriately managed.

Elbow fractures range from small, stable cracks in the bone to more complex injuries involving joint displacement, ligament damage or multiple fracture fragments. Early assessment is important to restore joint alignment, maintain movement and reduce the risk of long-term stiffness or arthritis.

On this page, learn about:

1. Understanding the elbow joint

The elbow joint is formed by three bones:

Humerus

The upper arm bone that connects the shoulder to the elbow

Ulna

The larger forearm bone that forms the hinge portion of the elbow

Radius

The forearm bone that allows rotation of the arm

These bones work together to allow the elbow to bend, straighten, and rotate the forearm. Ligaments, cartilage, muscles, and tendons provide stability and support movement. Fractures affecting any of these structures can disrupt normal elbow mechanics.

2. What causes elbow fractures?

Elbow fractures most commonly occur following trauma.
Causes may include:
  • Falls onto an outstretched hand - This is the most frequent cause of elbow fractures and can transmit force through the forearm into the elbow joint.
  • Direct impact to the elbow - A direct blow during sport, accidents, or falls can fracture the bone.
  • Sporting injuries - Contact sports, cycling accidents, and high-energy injuries can result in elbow fractures.
  • Motor vehicle or workplace accidents - Higher-energy trauma may lead to complex fracture patterns involving multiple bones or soft tissue injury.
  • Fragility fractures - In some individuals, particularly those with reduced bone density, fractures may occur following relatively minor trauma.

3. Types of elbow fractures

Elbow fractures can involve different bones and injury patterns:

Radial Head Fractures

Fractures of the radial head occur near the outer side of the elbow and commonly result from falls. These injuries can affect forearm rotation and elbow stability.

Olecranon Fractures

The olecranon forms the bony tip of the elbow. Fractures here may affect the ability to straighten the arm and are often caused by direct impact or falls.

Distal Humerus Fractures

These fractures occur at the lower end of the upper arm bone and may involve the joint surface. They are often more complex injuries requiring careful assessment.

Complex or Combined Fractures

Some injuries involve multiple bones, joint dislocation, or ligament damage, requiring specialised treatment planning.

4. Symptoms of an elbow fracture

Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of the fracture but may include:
  • Immediate elbow pain following injury
  • Swelling and bruising around the elbow
  • Difficulty bending or straightening the arm
  • Reduced ability to rotate the forearm
  • Visible deformity in more severe injuries
  • Tenderness over the elbow joint
  • Numbness or tingling if nearby nerves are affected
In some cases, patients may still be able to move the elbow despite a fracture, which is why imaging is important when injury is suspected.

5. How elbow fractures are diagnosed

Diagnosis involves clinical assessment and imaging. Accurate diagnosis helps guide treatment decisions and rehabilitation planning.

Detailed history of the injury mechanism

Physical examination assessing movement, stability, and nerve function

X-rays to identify fracture location, displacement, and joint involvement

Additional imaging may include:

CT scans to assess complex fractures and joint alignment

MRI in selected cases to evaluate ligament or cartilage injury

6. Non-surgical treatment for elbow fractures

Many elbow fractures can be managed without surgery, particularly when bones remain well aligned.
Non-operative management may include:
  • Immobilisation - A sling, splint, or brace may be used to protect the fracture during early healing.
  • Pain Management - Medication and ice therapy may help reduce pain and swelling.
  • Early Guided Movement - Once safe, supervised movement exercises may begin to reduce stiffness and support recovery.
Careful monitoring with follow-up imaging may be required to ensure the fracture heals in a stable position.

7. When surgery may be recommended for elbow fractures

Surgical treatment may be considered when:
  • Fracture fragments are displaced or unstable
  • The fracture involves the joint surface
  • There is associated ligament or nerve injury
  • Multiple bones are fractured
  • Elbow stability is compromised
  • Non-operative treatment is unlikely to restore function

8. Surgical treatment options for elbow fractures

The aim of surgery is to restore joint alignment, stabilise the fracture, and allow early movement where possible.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
Fracture fragments are repositioned and stabilised using plates, screws, or wires to maintain alignment during healing.
In some radial head fractures, the bone can be repaired. In more severe cases, replacement of the radial head may be considered to restore stability.
Complex fractures involving multiple structures may require advanced reconstructive techniques.
The most appropriate surgical option depends on fracture pattern, bone quality, and functional demands.

9. Recovery and rehabilitation after an elbow fracture

Recovery depends on fracture severity and treatment method.
Rehabilitation usually involves:
  • Initial protection of the elbow during early healing
  • Gradual return of elbow bending and straightening
  • Forearm rotation exercises
  • Progressive strengthening and functional rehabilitation
  • Staged return to sport, work, and physical activity
Elbow stiffness can occur following injury, making guided rehabilitation an important part of recovery.

Choosing the right treatment for elbow fractures

Treatment planning depends on multiple factors, including:
  • Fracture type and severity
  • Bone alignment and joint involvement
  • Age and bone quality
  • Occupational and sporting demands
  • Overall health and rehabilitation goals
Dr Richard Dallalana provides specialist assessment and management of elbow fractures, focusing on restoring movement, stability, and long-term joint function.

11. When to see a specialist for an elbow injury

You should seek specialist assessment if you experience:
  • Significant elbow pain following injury
  • Swelling, bruising, or deformity around the elbow
  • Difficulty moving or using the arm
  • Persistent pain after a fall or sporting injury
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the forearm or hand
Early specialist review may help guide treatment and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
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