Elbow soft tissue injury (sprain)

What is this information about?

This information is about elbow soft tissue injury.

It tells you:

• how to look after yourself when you go home from hospital with an elbow soft tissue injury
• what exercises you can do to help heal and strengthen your arm
• what follow-up treatment you might have
• who to contact if you need further help and support.

What is elbow soft tissue injury?

If you have an ‘elbow soft tissue injury’ this means that you have had damaged some of the parts of your body that that support your elbow. These include ligaments (the tough tissue that connects your bones together), muscles, or the capsule that surrounds the joint. The capsule is like a ‘bag’ that surrounds the joint.

How long is it likely to take for my injury to heal?

It usually takes around 6 weeks for an elbow soft tissue injury to heal.

What should I do if I am in pain after my elbow soft tissue injury?

If you are in pain, take your usual pain killers or pain killers given to you in the emergency department. Follow the dose instructions on the packet. If you are struggling with pain do speak to your GP or pharmacist.

What should I do to care for myself if I have an arm sling?

• If you have been given a sling wear it if, and when, it makes your arm more comfortable
• You could also your arm on some pillows if this is comfortable for you.

Will I have further (follow up) appointments?  

No. We do not usually follow up patients with this type of injury as they heal well.

What should I do in the first and second week after my injury?

In the first and second week after your injury do: 

• Rest your arm for the first 24 to 72 hours (1 to 3 days). However, it is important to keep moving around and moving your fingers, wrist, and shoulder, so they do not get stiff. Do this gently, without causing too much pain
• Apply cold packs (ice pack or frozen peas wrapped in a damp towel) to the sore area for up to 15 minutes, every few hours. This can provide short-term pain relief. Be aware, the ice must never be in direct contact with your skin
• Stop using your sling as soon as your symptoms allow you to
• Use the arm as much as you can so long as it does not cause you too much pain. Avoid doing things if they make your pain worse
• Avoid repeating movements too many times or putting strain on your elbow by, for example, lifting or pushing heaving things
• Take your arm out of your sling and practise moving your elbow as soon as you can. It is important to keep moving your elbow
• Aim to practice the exercises below 5 times a day. They should not cause you too much pain. Do less if they are making your pain worse.

Finger and wrist bending and straightening

Open and close your hand as shown ten times. Then move your wrist up and down 10 times. After a few days move on to holding a soft ball or a ball of socks. Squeeze the ball as hard as you can without it causing you pain. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 10 times.  

Elbow Bend to Straighten

Bend and straighten your elbow as far as you can without pain. You should not feel more than a mild to moderate stretch. You can use your other arm to help if you need to. Repeat ten times if there is no increase in pain.

Forearm Rotations

Keep your elbow at your side and bent to 90 degrees (a right angle) so your arm is in an L shape by your side. Slowly turn your palm up and down. You should not feel more than a mild to moderate stretch. You can use your other arm to help if you need to. Repeat 10 times if there is no increase in pain.

What should I do from week 3 after my injury?

• Do not use your sling
• Do your usual light activities with the arm
• Avoid repeating movements too many times or putting strain on your elbow by, for example, lifting or pushing heaving things if your elbow is still sore.

What other things can the Virtual Fracture Clinic help me with? 

Please contact Virtual Fracture Clinic if you:

• are concerned about your symptoms
• are struggling to return to exercise or your usual activities
• would like further information or support after you have read this information.

When can I start driving? 

You can return to driving when:

• you are no longer using an arm sling
• you can turn the steering wheel as much as you need to without it is hurting
• you can safely deal with all emergency situations without being in pain or hesitating. For example, you must be able to stop the car quickly and in full control and safely avoid obstacles
• you are covered by your insurance company.

How can I get a certificate to say that I am fit to work?

You can get a fitness for work statement from The Virtual Fracture Clinic.