From the Guidelines
It's concerning to have persistent elbow pain 10 days after a fall, and you should seek medical evaluation. While some discomfort after a fall is normal, pain that continues beyond a week may indicate a fracture, ligament tear, or other significant injury that requires proper diagnosis. According to the American College of Radiology 1, radiography is usually appropriate for the initial imaging of acute elbow or forearm pain.
Some key points to consider:
- The elbow is a complex joint with many small bones that can fracture in ways not immediately apparent, and proper healing often requires specific treatment.
- Warning signs that make medical attention more urgent include severe pain, inability to move the joint normally, numbness or tingling, visible deformity, or significant swelling.
- Delaying treatment for a serious elbow injury could lead to long-term complications like chronic pain, decreased range of motion, or joint instability.
- You can temporarily manage the pain with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food) or acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours), along with rest, ice for 15-20 minutes several times daily, compression with an elastic bandage, and elevation.
However, these measures are not substitutes for medical care. As stated in the acr appropriateness criteria® acute elbow and forearm pain 1, radiographs are beneficial as the initial imaging assessment for acute elbow and proximal forearm pain, and can help identify fractures, dislocations, or other injuries.
In the setting of acute elbow or forearm pain with normal or indeterminate radiographs, repeat radiographs in 10 to 14 days or CT without IV contrast is usually appropriate as the next imaging study of the elbow/proximal forearm for the assessment for suspected fracture 1.
It's essential to seek medical attention to determine the cause of the elbow pain and receive proper treatment to prevent long-term complications.
From the Research
Elbow Pain After a Fall
- Elbow pain after a fall can be caused by various factors, including soft tissue injuries, fractures, or dislocations 2, 3, 4.
- Even if an X-ray does not show any fractures, it is still possible to have a serious injury, such as a dislocation or ligament damage 2, 4.
- In some cases, elbow pain can be a sign of an underlying condition, such as epicondylitis, olecranon bursitis, or compressive neuropathies 5.
Normal Elbow Pain Duration
- The duration of elbow pain after a fall can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's overall health.
- In general, elbow pain can last for several days or even weeks after a fall, especially if the injury is not properly treated 2, 5.
- However, if the pain persists or worsens over time, it is essential to seek medical attention to rule out any underlying conditions that may require further treatment 2, 3, 4.
Importance of Medical Evaluation
- A medical evaluation is crucial after a fall, even if the X-ray does not show any fractures 2, 4.
- A doctor can assess the patient's overall condition, check for any signs of injury or underlying conditions, and provide guidance on the best course of treatment 2, 3, 5.
- In some cases, further imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, may be necessary to diagnose the underlying cause of the elbow pain 6, 4.