Arm injuries are
injuries that affect the forearm, arm, or elbow. The arm contains three bones
(ulna, radius, and humerus), along with tendons, muscles, ligaments and bursa.
If any of these structures is injured, pain and other symptoms can occur.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow
is common among tennis players, but also among other athletes who use the elbow
frequently, like powerlifters and grapplers. The medical term for tennis elbow
is lateral epicondylitis, and it occurs because overuse of the extensor muscles
in the forearm. Tennis elbow usually develops slowly over time. Tennis elbow
can usually be treated non-surgically.
Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s
elbow is similar to tennis elbow. They are both forms of tendinitis that
usually occur as a result of overuse in sports players. However, golfer’s elbow
occurs on the inside of the elbow, while tennis elbow affects the outside of
the elbow.
Fractures
Bones can be
fractured at many points in the arm. Severe fractures may require arm surgery
to set the bone, while less severe fractures may need only casting and
immobilization.
Some types
of arm fractures include:
*Distal humerus fracture – Occurs
where the arm bone, or humerus, meets the forearm bone, or ulna, in the elbow.
Distal humerus fracture is a severe injury that could lead to arthritis as well
as neuro-vascular problems.
*Olecranon fracture – The
olecranon is the bony point of the elbow that you can easily feel when touching
the elbow. A blow to the elbow or a fall can cause an olecranon fracture.
*Radial head fracture – The
radius is the smaller bone in the arm. The radial head lies near the elbow, and
can be fractured after trauma to the elbow or arm.
*Distal radial fracture – A
fracture that occurs on the part of the radius that is closer to the wrist.
*Ulna shaft fracture – The shaft
of the ulna can be fractured, most commonly by striking the forearm. Ulna shaft
fractures are also referred to as “nightstick fracture.”
Bursitis
The bursa
are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the elbow and facilitate movement.
Bursitis refers to inflammation of the bursa. Hitting the elbow is the most
common cause of elbow bursitis. Swelling and pain are the most common symptoms.
Most cases of
elbow bursitis will resolve on their own with rest and ice. In rare cases, the
doctor may need to drain the excess fluid from the swollen bursa.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tear
The ulnar
collateral ligament can stretch or tear due to overuse or trauma. UCL tears are
especially common among pitchers. Minor tears may heal on their own within a
few days, while moderate tears will often resolve using non-surgical treatments
like medication. More severe tears may need arm surgery to restore movement and
relieve pain.
When to See a Doctor
Minor arm or
elbow pain could just indicate bruising or inflammation that will fade on its
own. You should see a doctor if you have severe pain or pain that lasts for
longer than a few days. In addition, you should see a doctor immediately if you
think you may have a broken bone, if you can’t move your elbow, or if the elbow
or arm looks deformed.
At your
appointment, Dr.
Marans will look at your arm and perform a physical examination. Diagnostic
tests like x-rays will be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and find out how
severe the condition is. Based on the results, Dr. Marans will work with you to
develop a plan of treatment, which might include conservative methods, arm
surgery, or both.
You can
Follow and Tweet Us on Twitter @DrHowardMarans
No comments:
Post a Comment