From the Research
An undisplaced elbow fracture can be safely treated with 4 weeks of cast immobilization, as evidenced by a study published in The Journal of hand surgery, European volume 1. The cast immobilization allows the bone fragments to remain aligned while new bone forms to bridge the fracture.
- During this period, it's essential to keep the cast dry and follow any elevation instructions to minimize swelling.
- Patients should monitor for signs of complications such as increasing pain, numbness, color changes in fingers, or cast damage. After cast removal, physical therapy is usually recommended to restore range of motion and strength, as the elbow joint is prone to stiffness after immobilization.
- The healing process can be monitored through follow-up X-rays, which your doctor will schedule to ensure proper bone union before discontinuing immobilization. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or NSAIDs as directed by your physician. However, it's crucial to note that the specific bone involved and the patient's age may influence the treatment duration, with children generally healing faster than adults 2, 3, 4.
- A recent study published in The bone & joint journal 3 highlights the importance of individualized treatment approaches, particularly in elderly patients with osteoporotic bone and fragile soft-tissue envelopes. Overall, the treatment goal is to minimize morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life by promoting proper bone union and preventing complications.