How to develop the elbow joint after a fracture. Development of the elbow joint after a fracture: exercises during rehabilitation

In case of fractures, the injured limb must be immobilized. If the injury was serious, a person may spend a month or even more in a cast. In this case, muscles, ligaments and tendons do not perform their functions, and partial atrophy may occur. This is why the rehabilitation period is so important: it includes physiotherapy, physical therapy, massage and independent exercises.

- quite a serious injury. If the bone is not crushed and there is no displacement, the recovery period takes about 1-2 months. In other cases, rehabilitation takes a long time, and there is no guarantee that the joint will retain its mobility.

Hands are the main tool for a person. The flexion function of the elbow joint helps with many everyday tasks, which is why it is so important to develop the joint and restore muscle tone after a fracture.

Stages of rehabilitation

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First stage

This stage begins immediately after applying the plaster. It is important to do simple exercises with a casted arm to make it easier to restore it after the cast is removed. You can move your fingers one by one, sort through small things, move your shoulder joint, which is free from the bandage.

In order to improve blood circulation, you need to put your hand on the pillow and send signals to the muscles: tense them a little and relax. Such a static load will prevent them from atrophying and will keep them in shape.

Once the cast is removed, the main phase of fracture recovery begins. For the patient, it is the most difficult, since the damaged limb can completely lose its functions: it is impossible to bend and straighten the elbow, make simple movements and do household chores.

Recommendation. Doctors advise wearing an orthosis (orthopedic device), which will protect the healed joint in the first weeks. It gives greater freedom of movement than a cast, so you can begin to perform exercises while wearing an orthosis. simple exercises: raise your arm, rotate it, gradually bend and unbend it.

Important! Massotherapy not assigned at the first stage. Exercises should be gentle so as not to damage the joint again.

Second phase

At the second stage of rehabilitation after a fracture of the arm in the elbow joint, the exercises become more active. The doctor refers the patient to physical therapy, where, under the supervision of a specialist, the damaged limb is gradually developed using special devices:

weights;
balls;
sticks;
rubber bands.

These sports equipment will help quickly restore elasticity to your muscles, which they lose after a long period of immobility.

Physical therapy may include a set of different exercises, for example:

Clasp your palms in front of your chest. Then slowly lift them up, bending at the elbow joint, to the limit. Then lower down just as slowly, straightening your arms. If you feel severe pain, you should rest.
Bend your injured arm at the elbow, placing your palm on your shoulder, and lift it up as far as possible. You can make movements in different directions.
Clasp your arms, keeping your palms on your elbows. Slowly raise and lower them, observing your sensations.
Straighten your elbow joint to the limit and simultaneously raise and lower your arms. You can help yourself with a healthy limb if the joint does not fully extend.
Take a stick (not too heavy) and move your arms up and down with it. You can also use other weights up to 1 kg.
Bend the joint with your elbow outward, as if pulling it up. Do this movement, raising your arm to the limit, but do not overdo it.

Read also the article “” on our portal.

Important! There is no need to abuse your body. If you feel severe pain, you should stop exercising and rest.

Tip: Do exercises in the bath with warm water. This will help relax the muscles and reduce the stress on the joint in the first weeks.

Third stage

At this stage, it is assumed that the patient's range of motion is restored. You can continue physical therapy, and doctors strongly recommend visiting the pool. Exercises in water have a beneficial effect on all muscle groups.

The following physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed:

paraffin applications;
ozokerite applications;
mud baths, etc.

Tip: You can gently massage your arm below and above the elbow, and also massage your back. You should not massage the elbow itself, as this can negatively affect the condition of the joint.

Don't stop exercising. Now you can allow more freedom: throw a light ball, stretch an elastic band, squeeze an expander. Physical therapy at this stage involves more active movements:

Bend your elbows and forcefully lower and raise them. This exercise helps to develop not only the elbow, but also the shoulder joint.
Lean forward while moving your arms back and up parallel to each other. Hold at the extreme point for 10 seconds, then return to the starting position.
Bend your elbows and make circular movements to the right and left.
The starting position is the same, only now move your arms forward and make circular movements towards or away from you.

The structure of the elbow is quite complex; it consists of three main bones:

Brachial;
Elbow;
Ray.

Also in the elbow joint there are also muscles, ligaments, nerve endings and blood vessels. The human elbow moves only in two directions - it bends and extends, but the mechanism of movement is quite complex.

During a fracture, damage to the neurovascular bundle occurs, which can lead to very significant consequences. Often, after such an injury, surgical measures are prescribed, especially if hemarthrosis occurs.

Classification

Usually the damage is localized in the area of the process ulna, since there are no muscles that would protect it. You may also encounter other types of fractures:

damage to the head or neck of the beam;
trauma of the coronoid process;
fracture of the humeral condyles.

In addition, the injury can be open or closed, and also located inside the joint capsule or outside it. Bone fragments may move from their places or remain in an anatomical position.

Most often, you encounter a closed type of injury, during which the bones do not injure nearby soft tissues. In open trauma, the skin is damaged when bone fragments break through it.

Intra-articular;
Periarticular.

Intra-articular fractures are:

With displacement of bone fragments;
No displacement of bone fragments.

Traumatic fractures of the elbow joint are divided into:

When a person is injured, one bone may break (approximately 53% of cases) or several bones at once, most often 2-3. In addition, combined damage to the elbow is possible in the form of a fracture, dislocation or polytrauma, when the victim has multiple injuries.

By localization:

Fracture olecranon;
Supracondyle fracture humerus;
Intra-articular fracture of one of the bones.

Exist different kinds fracture of the process, depending on the mechanism and force of injury.

In relation to the joint, there are 2 types of fractures:

Classification of elbow joint fractures is carried out according to general parameters, and by signs characteristic of damage to intra-articular elements.

By contact with external environment:

Primary open;
Secondary open;
Closed.

Primary open fractures are characterized by damage to soft tissues caused by an external traumatic agent. In secondary open injuries, tissues are damaged by bone fragments. Closed fractures have no contact with the external environment.

By the presence of fragments:

Single fragmented;
Splintered;
Splinter-free.

In single-comminuted fractures, there is 1 bone fragment at the site of injury. Multifragmented injuries are characterized by the presence of many small bone elements.

Comminuted fractures can also include their crushed variety, when there is no clear fracture line. On an x-ray it can be seen great amount the smallest elements of bone.

The most complete and successful classification is considered to be developed by the Swiss surgeon Kocher in 1886:

Group A. Fractures of the lower end of the humerus:

Group B. Fractures of the upper end of the forearm:

coronoid process;
Olecranon;
Heads radius;
Radial necks.

Displaced fracture of the ulna

Displacement of bone fragments most often occurs with fractures of the olecranon. Significant displacement proximal part bone is accompanied by damage to the triceps tendon and dislocation of the head of the radial bone - Malgenya injury.

While maintaining the integrity of the tendon, the fragments are displaced slightly, which sometimes makes it possible to do without their surgical comparison.

Displaced elbow fractures lead to complete loss of function of the limb; it hangs freely along the body. Attempts to bend the arm provoke a sharp outbreak of pain. Passive flexion is maintained, but is also accompanied by pain.

Symptoms of an Elbow Fracture

Intra-articular fractures of the elbow lead to the following symptoms:

If the anatomical position of the fragments is preserved and there is no displacement, the function of the limb can be partially preserved. In this case, any flexion or extension movements in the elbow joint are extremely painful.

The position of the injured arm is often forced. In some cases, palpation can be used to feel the fracture line.

Symptoms of elbow fractures

The main symptom of an elbow fracture is intense pain, moreover, this condition can be provoked by injury to bones, cartilage, damage to blood vessels, as well as tissues and nerves.

When a fracture occurs, a specific crunch is heard, and then a change in the shape (deformation) of the elbow joint and limitation of flexion-extension movement in the arm are observed, and in some cases complete immobilization may occur.

With such an injury, the victim intuitively extends the injured arm along the body.

Gap blood vessels in the injured area causes bruising, and swelling of the soft tissues leads to the development of swelling.

In a displaced fracture, passive extension of the forearm is observed, while active extension is accompanied by severe pain. A fracture without displacement only leads to limited mobility in the joint.

Diagnostic methods

After an initial examination by a traumatologist, the patient is sent to additional examination, it could be:

Radiography;
Computed tomography (CT);
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);

Traditionally, radiography is used to diagnose a fracture; the image is taken in 2 projections.

For simple fractures, this study is sufficient.

Computed tomography is more precise research, which allows you to visualize in detail all bone fragments, their location, and the condition of the joint.

The study is indicated in cases of complex displaced fractures.

Magnetic resonance imaging. This research method is not associated with radiation exposure, therefore it is recommended for children, pregnant and lactating women. In addition, it allows, in addition to bone, to examine the condition of soft tissues: ligaments, muscles, joint capsule.

Diagnosis of elbow fractures is made based on the results of examination of the victim. However, to confirm the diagnosis in mandatory One of the types of x-ray examination is used:

As a rule, ordinary radiography is sufficient for a final diagnosis.

Expensive examination methods are used only for complex fractures, when the doctor needs to obtain a three-dimensional image of the damaged area and determine the degree of damage to the surrounding soft tissue.

Treatment

Therapy and further rehabilitation are prescribed by the doctor based on the type of damage and the location of the fault line. A fracture of the elbow joint occurs in a variety of everyday situations or during sports activities.

A person may fall on their elbow or be hit on the arm with a heavy object during a fight. One way or another, the victim needs qualified treatment, so he needs to be given first aid and taken to the nearest hospital.

After the patient is admitted to the hospital, he must go through a series of diagnostic procedures, after which the doctor puts accurate diagnosis. In addition to basic rehabilitation therapy, the victim is also prescribed painkillers, since this injury is typical strong manifestation pain syndrome.

Sometimes such damage can be so serious that immediate surgical treatment is prescribed. If the injury is not too severe, the bones heal quickly and the patient returns to usual life.

To recovery period took as little time as possible, the victim is prescribed exercises to develop the elbow joint.

When a person receives such an injury, the arm does not straighten long time, because it is fixed with a plaster cast or a special splint.

Due to immobilization, muscle and tendon tissue lose their functionality. Helps speed up recovery upper limb a special set of exercises and other procedures:.

physiotherapy;
massages;
various physiotherapeutic procedures.

Full recovery requires some time, because an elbow fracture is a serious injury. Working out the elbow joint after a fracture is not a pleasant process, because during exercises a person often experiences pain.

But in order for the arm to straighten again and fully perform its functions, it is necessary to adhere to the doctor’s recommendations and do everything he recommends.

Medical tactics directly depends on the degree of violation of the ratio internal structures elbow joint.

Basic principles of treatment for an elbow fracture:

Accurate reposition of bone fragments and fragments;
Strong fixation;
Early feature(active movements in the elbow joint).

Immediately after the fracture, it is necessary to ensure the immobility of the injured upper limb (immobilization). Ladder bus is applied to the arm from the upper third of the shoulder and reaches the heads of the metacarpal bones.

The injured arm is in a position of flexion at the elbow joint of 90-100 degrees. After this, the victim must be hospitalized in the trauma department of the hospital.

For intra-articular fractures without displacement of bone fragments, the victim is given a plaster cast for 2-3 weeks. It starts from the heads of the metacarpal bones and reaches the upper third of the humerus.

The injured elbow joint should be fixed at an angle of 90 - 100 degrees, and the patient's forearm should be in the middle position. To avoid the subsequent development of myositis ossificans, it is necessary to refrain from massage in the elbow area.

If a victim has a fracture of the lower part of the humerus, bone fragments have been displaced, then the doctor must compare them - reposition them.

With intra-articular fractures this has a very great importance, since displaced bone fragments can lead to deformation of the elbow and limitation of motor functions in the elbow joint.

One of the features of the treatment of intra-articular fractures is that it is necessary to stop therapeutic immobilization of the broken elbow joint as soon as possible.

If the doctor was unable to compare the bone fragments conservatively, then surgical treatment is indicated for the patient. During the operation, the traumatologist can accurately compare all the bone fragments and fix them with bolts and screws.

If a victim has a crushed or comminuted fracture as a result of an injury, then the bone fragments must be fixed using extrafocal hardware osteosynthesis.

Surgical treatment for a fracture of the olecranon is indicated if the diastasis between the bone fragments is more than two or three centimeters, and it manifests itself when the elbow is bent at an angle of up to 100 degrees.

In case of a fracture in the area of the head and neck of the radius without displacement of bone fragments, the patient is given an external plaster splint for 7-10 days. After removing the plaster, the patient is prescribed dosed movements in the elbow joint, as well as various physiotherapy procedures (paraffin baths, Sollux).

The load on the elbow should be moderate, only with the permission of the attending physician. Typically within 3-4 weeks physiological function the elbow joint is almost completely restored.

If the victim has a crushed fracture of the head and neck of the radius or a fracture with significant displacement of bone fragments that impairs the rotational mobility of the elbow joint, then the doctor must perform a resection of the head of the radius.

In case of a fracture in the area of the coronoid process of the ulna, the victim is given a circular plaster cast from the upper third of the shoulder to the heads of the metacarpal bones for three weeks.

After the immobilizing bandage is removed, the patient must undergo a course of rehabilitation treatment. In the event that a fracture of the coronoid process of the ulna does not heal for a long time and bone fragment is located in the elbow joint, then surgical treatment is indicated for the patient.

IN severe cases The patient has the head of the bone removed and an endoprosthesis is installed.

Patients' ability to work is usually restored within 5-8 weeks after injury.

If you suspect a fracture of the olecranon, when it is not possible to immediately see a doctor, the victim must be given first aid. The arm, bent at the elbow joint at an angle of 90-110°, must be suspended from the body and fixed.

If you don’t have a bandage at hand, you can use a scarf, a scarf, or a piece of cloth. You should also be given a pain reliever or sedative.

The choice of treatment for a fracture is based on the results of the examination and clarification of the diagnosis. For ordinary fractures without displacement of fragments, conservative treatment on an outpatient basis.

Complex fractures: fragmentation, displacement - are subject to surgical treatment in a trauma department.

Conservative treatment

If the displacement of the fragments is insignificant and there is a possibility of their fusion, simply immobilization is indicated.

Typically, a plaster splint is placed along the extensor (back) surface of the arm, starting from the top of the shoulder and ending at the wrist. In this case, the arm is bent at the elbow joint at an angle of 80-90° with the forearm and hand turned palm up.

Additionally, the limb is suspended from the neck using a scarf or bandage. A continuous circular bandage is not applied to avoid compression and swelling of the tissue. In modern practice in similar cases orthosis splints are used.

The duration of hand immobilization is from 3 to 4 weeks. During this period, a few days after the injury, when the swelling will go away, prescribe physiotherapeutic procedures and exercise therapy for free joints (shoulder, fingers).

After fusion and formation of a strong callus the bandage is removed and rehabilitation treatment is prescribed.

Surgery

Operations for a fracture of the olecranon with or without displacement can be performed urgently, that is, in the first days after the injury, and more late dates, if the patient came with an incorrectly healed fracture suffered earlier.

Target surgical treatment– adequate comparison of bone fragments and their fixation in the correct, physiological position.

There are many methods surgical treatment fracture of the olecranon, their choice depends on the characteristics of the injury and its duration. Most often in traumatological practice for fractures of the olecranon process they are used. following operations:

After osteosynthesis surgery, a cast is also applied for 3-6 weeks, depending on the volume of intervention, then restorative treatment is prescribed.

Healing of the fracture and professionally performed osteosynthesis of the olecranon process is only half the battle when the elbow is damaged. It is necessary to restore limb function after prolonged immobilization.

Rehabilitation after an olecranon fracture begins within a few days after the injury or surgery, when the arm is fixed with a splint. Careful movements in the shoulder joint, movements of the fingers, and volitional contractions of the muscles of the forearm under the bandage are prescribed.

This improves blood circulation and prevents muscle atrophy.

After removing the splint, a full course of rehabilitation is prescribed, which includes:

A fracture of the olecranon leaves no consequences when the main course of treatment is supplemented with full rehabilitation up to full recovery hand functions.

You can read about nutrition during fracture healing and during the recovery period here.

Non-displaced elbow fractures are treated conservatively. In this case, a deep plaster splint is applied to the back of the limb, starting from the upper third of the shoulder and ending in the area of the wrist joint.

The same is done for small displacements, if reposition was achieved by straightening the joint. The splint is applied for up to 4 weeks.

In this case, temporary removal of the immobilizing bandage for carrying out exercise therapy allowed at the end of the 2nd week of treatment. After classes, the splint is returned to its place.

For displaced elbow peleloma, surgery is necessary. Osteosynthesis for comminuted fractures and significant displacement of fragments is carried out using the “tightening loop” method. In this case, channels are made in the fragments, through which the doctor pulls a special wire.

The resulting loop has an eight-shaped shape. The wire is tightened on the outer surface of the bone, firmly fixing the fragments in the required position.

Osteosynthesis using a “tightening loop” is good because it does not require long-term immobilization of the limb.

The postoperative suture is covered with an aseptic bandage, and the arm is suspended on a “scarf.” Active movements in the elbow joint are allowed already on the 3rd day after the intervention.

Full range of motion is restored on average within a month. It is necessary to remove the fixing structures after 3-4 months, after complete fusion of the bone.

For fractures of the elbow joint, the following drug therapy is used:

Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs

The use of painkillers is especially important in the first days after injury. Patients are prescribed drugs such as analgin, ketorol, ketorolac, ibuprufen, baralgin.

They help reduce pain intensity, swelling and inflammation. For very severe pain, narcotic analgesics can be used.

Antibacterial agents are indicated in 100% of cases of open fractures and fractures whose treatment required surgery. Closed fractures without displacement, which are treated conservatively, require antibiotics only in cases of severe inflammation.

Antitetanus serum

In case of open fractures and the wound is contaminated with soil, a tetanus vaccination is mandatory for all victims.

Open injuries, as well as surgery require the patient to be prescribed hemostatic agents (aminocaproic acid, vikasol, etamsylate). This reduces the risk postoperative complications, prevents re-development hemarthrosis, prevents the increase of hematoma at the site of bone damage.

Calcium preparations, multivitamin complexes, vitamin D₃

All these drugs allow you to speed up healing, improve the quality of bone connection, and restore limb function as quickly as possible.

Physiotherapy for fractures of the elbow joint is prescribed at the end of the 2nd week of treatment. In this case, the affected area is exposed to low-frequency and pulsed magnetic fields.

Magnetotherapy helps accelerate the regeneration of cartilage and bone tissue, improves blood microcirculation, prevents thrombosis, reduces swelling and reduces intensity inflammatory process.

It is important to remember that prescribing magnetic therapy too early increases the risk of postoperative bleeding or bleeding into the joint from vessels damaged at the time of injury.

In addition, physical therapy is not used if you have a pacemaker, malignant neoplasms, acute cardiovascular pathology and pregnancy.

After removing the plaster cast, the patient is prescribed ozokerite applications, heating, electropheresis with calcium preparations, salt baths, mud therapy.

Plaster for elbow fracture

Depending on the type of fracture, treatment may vary. For a diagnosed non-displaced fracture, conservative treatment is used.

In this case, a posterior plaster splint is applied, and the arm remains bent at the elbow joint at an angle of 90°. The same treatment is prescribed for a slightly displaced fracture.

If a fracture with severe displacement is diagnosed, then surgical intervention cannot be avoided.

Surgery for a fracture of the elbow joint consists of three stages:

Reposition of the olecranon;
Osteosynthesis of the olecranon – metal pins, bone pins, and screws can be used for this purpose;
Stitching of the olecranon process is performed at an angle of 100° -110°.

The second stage of treatment consists of performing certain exercises that are aimed at preventing the development of contractures. The next day after the fracture, you must begin to move your arm, but without flexion movements in the damaged joint.

Finger exercises should be carried out, since the muscles that move them begin in the elbow joint. In addition, to prevent swelling, it is necessary to periodically raise the injured arm above your head while lying down.

The second stage of treatment involves removing part of the plaster cast.

First aid for a fractured ulna

First aid for a broken elbow consists of completely immobilizing the injured arm. In the absence of a specialized medical splint, the latter can be made from improvised materials: planks, fishing rods, flexible metal rods.

When applying a splint, the limb should be carefully bent at an angle of 90˚, with the palm turned towards the victim’s face. If an attempt to give the arm the required position is accompanied by a sharp increase in pain, bending should be abandoned and the arm should be fixed in the position it assumed after the injury.

Before applying the splint to the body, wrap it with bandages, soft cloth, gauze. It is not advisable to use unprotected metal or wooden elements, as they can cause additional damage.

The splint is applied in such a way that it immobilizes not only the elbow, but also the wrist and shoulder joints.

If there are no materials for making a splint, the arm can be suspended in a free position on a bandage of the “scarf” type. In this case, the victim must support the limb with his healthy hand to avoid excessive mobility.

In case of open fractures of the ulna, the wound along the edges must be treated with any antiseptic and bandage sterile bandage. Apply cotton wool to open wounds undesirable, as this will subsequently complicate the primary surgical treatment.

Physiotherapy for elbow fracture

Physiotherapy procedures are aimed at creating conditions for bone restoration after a fracture. Warming is more often prescribed; for this purpose, magnetic therapy, electrophoresis and UHF are used.

Such procedures speed up the rehabilitation process and help a person quickly return to their previous lifestyle. Intra-articular fractures are serious problem, since in the future there is a danger of restriction of movements, arthrosis of the joints may develop.

Although rehabilitation takes a lot of time, it is important to carry it out to the extent prescribed by the doctor, this increases the chances of a faster recovery.

The healing process is also correct menu. Food can speed up the healing process; for this it is important to monitor your diet. Vitamins C and E help strengthen ligaments. Collagen is also necessary - this is a special protein that has the ability to “glue” and serve as the basis for human connective tissue. Collagen-rich foods:

poultry meat;
fish;
seafood, including seaweed;
cereals (buckwheat and oatmeal);
fruits (persimmons and peaches).

The former motor function the elbow joint is very difficult to return. And therefore, in order to fully and quickly restore its performance, physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed simultaneously with therapeutic training and massage sessions.

To treat the elbow joint, ozokerite baths, mud therapy, magnetic therapy, paraffin, electrophoresis and UHF are used.

With a responsible approach to your treatment and following all the recommendations of doctors, it is quite possible to develop the elbow joint and completely return it to its original mobility.

When the arm is in a cast for a long time, blood circulation in the elbow joint is impaired. Without a sufficient supply of oxygenated blood, the blood supply to the tendons and muscles suffers, and their partial atrophy occurs.

In order to prevent all these pathophysiological phenomena, after removing the immobilizing bandage, the patient is prescribed therapeutic exercises, exercises in water and physiotherapeutic treatment.

Average term rehabilitation depends on the type and severity of the fracture. On average, it takes 1.5-2 months to restore lost joint functions.

The development of the functions of the elbow joint with the help of physical therapy is carried out in three main stages.

First stage

Even during the period of immobilization, the patient not only needs to undergo general developmental breathing exercises, but also the initial stages of physical therapy. As a rule, the first exercises are done the next day after applying the plaster cast. It is necessary to start with those parts of the arm that are free from the plaster cast: the shoulder joint and the joints of the fingers.
Exist special exercises, which are aimed at combating swelling of the limb, improving blood circulation in it:
Hands must be placed on a pillow behind the head or to the sides (in the abduction position). In this case, the patient should send impulses to the plastered elbow joints and not strain the muscles of the forearm and shoulder too much.
Immediately after the patient's plaster cast is removed, you can carefully perform slow flexion and extension exercises at the elbow joint.

Second phase

It includes exercises that are aimed at developing the functions of the elbow joint.

The starting position of the patient is sitting. The patient's hand is located on the table (at the same time correct position will be when the edge of the table is in the area armpit). Slow flexion and extension are performed at the elbow joint.
The starting position of the patient is sitting. The patient's forearm is placed on a high table. You need to take a children's rolling toy in your hands and, with the shoulder fixed, the patient gradually “rolls” the forearm area with the help of the toy.
The patient's starting position is sitting or standing. The patient should pick up a small ball or gymnastic stick and perform various simple exercises with them to develop the elbow joint. When performing these exercises, the patient should not experience pain.
The patient's starting position is standing with the torso slightly tilted forward or in a sitting position. Slowly flex and extend the elbow joint simultaneously with the healthy arm. To perform this exercise, you need to raise your hands up, clasp your fingers and lower them behind your head.

These exercises are performed by the patient in a bath with warm water. Average duration such charging: 10-15 minutes every day.

Third stage

If a patient has various restrictions of movement in the elbow joint after an injury, then he is prescribed physiotherapeutic procedures.

Physiotherapy preference is given to paraffin applications, currents, mud therapy and ozokerite baths. After a course of physical therapy has been completed, the rehabilitation doctor prescribes exercise therapy for the patient.

Exercises performed by the patient in water at a comfortable temperature (for example, in a swimming pool) are very effective.

The patient needs to perform flexion and extension at the elbow joint, supination and pronation.

Characteristic feature carrying out exercises in the pool is the fact that when the patient is in warm water the hand gradually relaxes, all exercises and movements become much easier and without pain, however, even in this case it is necessary to observe the measure and not overwork the injured hand.

In any rehabilitation period, the average number of repetitions of exercises is 5 times. Exercises throughout the entire rehabilitation period must be performed several times a day.

With this type of physical therapy, the patient must ensure that the arm does not get too tired. If the patient feels even slight pain in the elbow area or his arm quickly gets tired while performing the exercise, then it is necessary to give the arm a little rest.

Many patients with various injuries in the elbow joint are interested in the question: “Is it possible to perform a massage in the elbow area?”

In the first period of rehabilitation, massage is contraindicated. You can massage the upper limb above or below the injury to the elbow joint, as well as massage in the back area.

After the volume of lost movements in the joint has been restored, the patient is allowed to carry out very gentle medical massage.

The main goal of this method of rehabilitation therapy is to restore the range of lost movements and improve local blood supply. With massage, traces of periarticular hemorrhages gradually resolve.

Massage in this case helps the patient prevent atrophy muscle fibers and strengthen the ligaments of the elbow joint.

During the rehabilitation period, the patient is contraindicated in various passive movements.

Carrying various weights is prohibited; muscle overwork should be avoided. In this case, you should not do static supports and hangs, as well as exercises that cause pain.

Proper nutrition

Equally important for the restoration of the joint is proper nutrition, that is, food that promotes the regeneration and strengthening of the osteoarticular apparatus.

The nutrition of a patient in a hospital is monitored by specialists. However, even after discharge you must adhere to a certain menu. Before discharge, the patient is told in detail about the principles proper nutrition:

Mucopolysaccharides will help restore the functionality of the joint. They are found in such dishes and products as:
- Dishes prepared on the basis of cartilage and bones (jelly, jellied meat, meat soups and broths);
- By-products;
- Kissel;
- Jelly.

Injury to the upper extremities in the elbow joint occurs quite often. After such an injury and forced long-term stay in a plaster cast, the arm usually does not straighten. In order to restore the full functioning of an injured limb, a lot of effort must be made.

Exercises to develop the elbow joint after a fracture will help in this task. This stage is very important for rehabilitation after injury.

What are the goals of joint development?

Working out the elbow joint after a fracture helps not only restore normal motor activity in the joint, but also helps restore damaged tendons, the rupture of which often accompanies elbow fracture. This often requires surgical intervention.

After the operation, the recovery process is even slower than in cases where the injured person does not need the operation. Accordingly, you also have to wear a cast much longer - sometimes up to 2.5-3 months, which leads to partial atrophy arm muscles and tendons.

Therapeutic exercise will help restore the previous motor activity injured hand, but it will take time. The sensations in the elbow joint, as in the rest of the arm, during a set of exercises will not be the most pleasant and even quite painful. But you need to exercise, overcoming the pain, because this is the only way to completely return your hand to its previous “shape.”

If after a fracture of the elbow joint you do not perform therapeutic exercises, the elbow joint after a fracture can be immobilized throughout later life a person, which will seriously affect the functionality of the injured hand and cause serious discomfort in everyday life.

When can remedial measures begin?

Those who have suffered the above type of injury to the upper limb are primarily interested in the question of how to develop an elbow after a fracture and how soon after the injury you can start doing gymnastics.

Exercise therapy for a fracture of the elbow joint should begin immediately after the limb has been fixed in a plaster cast.

You may ask, how to do exercises if your hand is immobilized? It’s very simple - you can work on those parts of the arm that are not covered with a fixing bandage. Those. You need to perform the exercises with your fingers, the movements of which directly affect the development of the muscles and tendons of the hand.

It is also necessary to regularly develop the shoulder joint, the muscles of which are also connected to the elbow. When performing the exercises, you must carefully ensure that the arm fixed in plaster does not unbend in any way and does not move at all at the fracture site.

Elementary but effective gymnastics for rehabilitation

Let the physical exercises that will be performed immediately after applying the cast not be too difficult. It is enough just to clench and unclench your fingers, “write” with them on an imaginary keyboard, carefully rotate your entire arm in the shoulder joint so that it is bent, and in no case do you move your injured elbow. In case of an elbow fracture, performing such an elementary complex will prevent disruption of blood flow and the development of edema in the arm.

How to develop a broken elbow joint in the subsequent stages of recovery - when the cast is removed? You can proceed to perform more difficult exercises:

Move a chair with a backrest so that you sit sideways to the tabletop. Sit down and lay down injured hand onto the tabletop so that the latter cuts under your armpit. Starting from this position, the arm should extend and bend at the elbow joint. At the end point Bottom part the upper limb should be pressed against the forearm, and then return to its original position and rest on the support, i.e. table top.
Sit on the floor and pick up any wheeled toy. Grasp it with your injured hand and roll it along the floor as far as your arm can reach. During the exercise, the shoulder joint must be securely fixed in one position - only the elbow joint should “work”.
You can develop a fractured joint by playing games with a ball. Throwing the ball into a basket or through a net is effective.
Place your feet shoulder-width apart and straighten up. Bend your upper body forward so that it is parallel to the floor but perpendicular to your lower body. Straighten your arms and try to reach the floor with them on the count of one, two, three, and then straighten your body. After straightening, place both hands behind your back and try to lock them into a “lock.”

Rehabilitation after a fracture should occur gradually. Be patient with yourself and attentive while performing any exercises with your injured arm. Stop immediately if you feel pain. Do not overdo it, so as not to provoke a re-fracture or displacement of the broken elbow joint. It is enough to perform the above exercises no more than 5 times daily - this approach to recovery is competent and effective.

Extension and bending of the arms at the elbows while taking a bath are also effective - i.e. in warm water. A warm bath helps improve blood circulation in the body and, accordingly, blood flow to the injured elbow, which promotes its accelerated healing and recovery. Do not neglect the prescribed physiotherapeutic procedures, as well as visits to the massage room.

We hope that we have fully answered the question “how to develop the elbow joint.”

Often, the causes of an arm fracture are related to weakness of the ligaments and tendons that are located around the joint. If the tendons are well stretched, they help the movements of the elbow joint and also prevent injury. Without movement, tendons quickly lose their elasticity. When, after a fracture, the arm is in a cast for a long time, the joints lose their flexion-extension functions. Therefore, it is very important to begin developing the elbow joint immediately after removing the cast.

How does the elbow joint develop after a fracture?

As a rule, in a cast, all the joints and tendons of the elbow joint have atrophied. Therefore, immediately after the immobilization is removed, the patient is prescribed: therapeutic exercises (this is the most important thing in rehabilitation after a fracture), exercises in water and physiotherapy. All these measures help restore all functions of mobility in the elbow joint. The rehabilitation period is approximately 2 weeks to 1.5 months (depending on the degree of the fracture).

The development of the joint through physical therapy is carried out in three periods. The first development period is divided into two stages. At the first stage (immobilization), already on the second day after the fracture, along with general developmental breathing exercises, movements of the shoulder joint and finger joints free from plaster begin. To combat pain syndrome, with swelling of the limb, do the following exercise to improve blood circulation in the arm. The arm is placed in abduction position or on a pillow behind the head. At the same time, impulses are sent to the cast joints, and the muscles of the forearm and shoulder are tensed. Immediately after removing the plaster, the second stage involves flexion and extension of the elbow joint, but very carefully.

The second period of recovery after a fracture includes the following exercises aimed at developing the elbow joint.

Starting position (i.p.) sitting, place the shoulder of the sore arm on the table (edge of the table at the armpit), and extend the arm. The joint undergoes flexion and extension.

I.p. sitting, and the forearm is located on the table, you need to take a children's rolling toy in your fingers - fixing the shoulder, the patient “rolls” the forearm with the help of the toy.

I.p. sitting or standing. It is necessary to perform all kinds of exercises with a ball or a stick to develop the elbow joint. There should be no pain during exercise.

I.p. sitting or standing with the torso tilted forward - extension and flexion at the joint, which are performed simultaneously with the healthy arm. Extension and flexion of the elbow joints: lifting them behind the head, holding hands in a “lock”, etc.

Exercises are also performed in a bath with warm water for 10-15 minutes twice a day.

In the third period, when movement in the joint is limited, physiotherapeutic procedures (currents, paraffin, mud, ozokerite, etc.) are recommended, after which exercise therapy is recommended. In the second and third periods of rehabilitation after a fracture, exercises in water are recommended: supination and pronation in the elbow joint, flexion and extension. The fact is that water relaxes the hand and all movements become much easier, but you should not overwork yourself.

The number of repetitions of each exercise in any rehabilitation period is performed 5 times. It is recommended to do the exercises several times a day. When performing exercise therapy, you need to pay attention so that your arm does not get too tired. If she gets tired, give her a rest.

Massage of the elbow joint is contraindicated for the first time after rehabilitation. A massage is performed on the injured limb below or above the joint, as well as a back massage. A little later, a very gentle massage of the elbow joint is allowed to speed up the restoration of range of motion, resorption of hemorrhage, prevent muscle atrophy, and also strengthen the bursal-ligamentous apparatus.

After any fracture during the rehabilitation period, passive movements, carrying significant weights, muscle fatigue, stress, hanging, and exercises that cause pain are contraindicated. All this can lead to swelling in the joint, cause pain in the joint, muscle calcification, reflex muscle contraction, and the growth of bone deformities (“spurs”, “whiskers”). If you follow all the specialist’s recommendations, all previous functions of the elbow joint are restored.

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What is joint development?

massage treatments;
physical exercises (physical exercises);
physiotherapy sessions.

What does physical exercise and open area massage include?

Training during physical therapy is the basis of the entire process of restoring normal functionality of the elbow joint. Ignoring physical therapy sessions, as a rule, ends in failure in the form of loss of mobility of the elbow joint.

The process of developing the elbow after a fracture is divided into three stages. It is allowed to start the initial stage one day after applying the plaster. Advance consultation with a specialist will help you find out whether there are any contraindications for starting classes.

Development of the elbow after a fracture begins with training the shoulder and wrist joints, which are not enclosed in a plaster shell, as well as the fingers on the injured hand.

To avoid swelling, you must do special moves: lying on the bed, periodically, several times a day, you need to raise your hand behind your head and place it on the pillow above your head. 7 days after applying the cast, to better stimulate lymphatic drainage and relieve swelling, you can begin to regularly, but not strain the muscles of the shoulders and forearm too much.

It is also very important to do the simplest exercises that are designed to develop your fingers, since their motor capabilities directly depend on the functioning of the joint. To do this you need:

periodically spread your fingers;
do exercises that simulate squeezing and unclenching a rubber ring in the palm of your hand;
make circular movements with each finger separately;
Plasticine can be an excellent tool for developing finger motor skills.

Only the attending physician decides when it is time for the next stage of rehabilitation. Restoration of the elbow joint after a fracture at this stage involves flexion and extension movements of the elbow itself. In order to perform them, partial removal of the bandage from the forearm is required. After training, it is put back on.

Which exercises are suitable for the patient should be decided and prescribed by the attending physician. But the basis of each complex consists of exercises similar to the following:

Sit at the table and place your hand on it, then carefully raise your forearm and lower it.
In the same position, place your hand on the surface so that the edge of the table rests on your armpit, from this position the elbow is developed very slowly and carefully by bending and straightening the arm at the elbow joint.
Join your hands in a lock and raise them above your head, then carefully bend and straighten them.
Lying on a bed or on a special rug, raise your arm above your head and smoothly bend and straighten it at the elbow. This exercise should be done with such partiality and the maximum angle that is possible due to the damaged joint.
From the same position, you should bend your arm at the elbow and make circular movements with your hand, alternately in one direction and then in the other direction.
Lie on a flat surface with your arms extended parallel to your body, carefully bend and straighten your arm at the elbow, lifting it up above you.
From a sitting or standing position, do light exercises using a gymnastic stick.

The average time of classes should not exceed 10-15 minutes. If during training there are painful sensations, classes must be stopped. And they should be resumed in a more gentle manner after consultation with your doctor.

Full restoration of the elbow joint after a fracture, as a rule, can begin when the plaster is removed. The third stage of rehabilitation includes a set of more complex exercises, which cannot be avoided. If restorative measures are not taken seriously, such an injury may in the future result in a permanent decrease in joint mobility or arthrosis.

Simulate casting a fishing rod by clasping your hands together and alternately placing them behind your ears, first on the left, then on the right.
Lock your fingers together and lift them behind your head.
Putting your hands behind your head and joining your hands in a lock, pull them up while simultaneously turning your palms up.
Connect your fingers in a lock, placing them behind your back.
Bend your elbow at an angle of 90 degrees, make circular movements with your forearm to the left and then to the right.
Roll a regular toy car designed for children's games on the table.
Use your fingers to move the balls in the palm of your injured hand, thereby restoring their mobility.
From a standing position, take a gymnastic stick and place it on outstretched arms at chest level. Then bend both arms at the elbow, straighten them, raising them up. Bend again to chest level, and so on several times.

It is recommended to do each exercise 3-4 sets per day, 10-12 times. You need to start with 4-5 repetitions, gradually increasing the load. It is advisable to perform the exercises with both hands at the same time. The restoration effect will be much better and more effective.

Rehabilitation after a fracture of the elbow joint will have a much deeper effect if you perform part of the exercises in a pool or in a bath with sea salt. Sea salt is useful healing substance, thanks to which the joint quickly acquires its previous motor abilities. At the same time, the pain syndrome dulls and disappears.

Even with good dynamics of restoration of motor functions of the joint, exercises on the bar, lifting weights and other strength loads must be postponed until complete recovery.

Elbow massage after a fracture

Elbow massage after a fracture is as important for rehabilitation as exercise. A gentle massage gives strength to ligaments, relieves pain, accelerates the process of restoring motor abilities, and prevents the death of muscle tissue.

At the initial stage of treatment, massage is strictly contraindicated. A light massage after a fracture of the elbow joint can be done starting from the second part of the recovery process. It is carried out with the patient in a sitting position, when his injured limb is placed on a hard surface. Then, using a children's rubber ball, carefully “roll out” the part of the arm that is not in plaster. For better blood circulation, it is also allowed to do light massage backs.

When the plaster is removed and the motor functions of the joint are partially restored, gentle medical massage is allowed, thanks to which blood circulation is stimulated in the touch area. This physical impact contributes to faster and better restoration of motor functions of the joint. Massage of the elbow after a fracture accelerates the resorption of hemorrhages that have occurred near the joint and strengthens the ligaments of the elbow joint, preventing atrophy of muscle fibers.

Physiotherapy for elbow fracture

It is very difficult to return the previous motor function of the elbow joint. And therefore, in order to fully and quickly restore its performance, physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed simultaneously with therapeutic training and massage sessions. To treat the elbow joint, ozokerite baths, mud therapy, magnetic therapy, paraffin, electrophoresis and UHF are used.

With a responsible approach to your treatment and following all the recommendations of doctors, it is quite possible to develop the elbow joint and completely return it to its original mobility.

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In order to prevent all these pathophysiological phenomena, after removing the immobilizing bandage, the patient is prescribed therapeutic exercises, exercises in water and physiotherapeutic treatment.

The average rehabilitation period depends on the type and severity of the fracture. On average, it takes 1.5-2 months to restore lost joint functions.

The development of the functions of the elbow joint with the help of physical therapy is carried out in three main stages.

First stage

Even during the period of immobilization, the patient needs not only to carry out general developmental breathing exercises, but also the initial stages of physical therapy. As a rule, the first exercises are done the next day after applying the plaster cast. It is necessary to start with those parts of the arm that are free from the plaster cast: the shoulder joint and the joints of the fingers.

There are special exercises that are aimed at combating swelling of the limb and improving blood circulation in it:
Hands must be placed on a pillow behind the head or to the sides (in the abduction position). In this case, the patient should send impulses to the plastered elbow joints and not strain the muscles of the forearm and shoulder too much.
Immediately after the patient's plaster cast is removed, you can carefully perform slow flexion and extension exercises at the elbow joint.

Second phase

It includes exercises that are aimed at developing the functions of the elbow joint.

The starting position of the patient is sitting. The patient's hand is placed on the table (in this case, the correct position would be when the edge of the table is in the armpit area). Slow flexion and extension are performed at the elbow joint.
The starting position of the patient is sitting. The patient's forearm is placed on a high table. You need to take a children's rolling toy in your hands and, with the shoulder fixed, the patient gradually “rolls” the forearm area with the help of the toy.
The patient's starting position is sitting or standing. The patient should pick up a small ball or gymnastic stick and perform various simple exercises with them to develop the elbow joint. When performing these exercises, the patient should not experience pain.
The patient's starting position is standing with the torso slightly tilted forward or in a sitting position. Slowly flex and extend the elbow joint simultaneously with the healthy arm. To perform this exercise, you need to raise your hands up, clasp your fingers and lower them behind your head.

These exercises are performed by the patient in a bath with warm water. The average duration of such charging: 10-15 minutes every day.

Third stage

If a patient has various restrictions of movement in the elbow joint after an injury, then he is prescribed physiotherapeutic procedures.

Among physical treatments, preference is given to paraffin baths, currents, mud therapy and ozokerite baths. After a course of physical therapy has been completed, the rehabilitation doctor prescribes exercise therapy for the patient.

Exercises performed by the patient in water at a comfortable temperature (for example, in a swimming pool) are very effective.

The patient needs to perform flexion and extension at the elbow joint, supination and pronation.

A characteristic feature of carrying out exercises in the pool is the fact that when the patient is in warm water, the hand gradually relaxes, all exercises and movements become much easier and without pain, however, even in this case, it is necessary to observe the measure and not overwork the injured hand.

In any rehabilitation period, the average number of repetitions of exercises is 5 times. Exercises throughout the entire rehabilitation period must be performed several times a day. With this type of physical therapy, the patient must ensure that the arm does not get too tired. If the patient feels even slight pain in the elbow area or his arm quickly gets tired while performing the exercise, then it is necessary to give the arm a little rest.

Many patients with various injuries in the elbow joint are interested in the question: “Is it possible to perform a massage in the elbow area?”

In the first period of rehabilitation, massage is contraindicated. You can massage the upper limb above or below the injury to the elbow joint, as well as massage in the back area. After the volume of lost movements in the joint has been restored, the patient is allowed to undergo a very gentle medical massage.

The main goal of this method of rehabilitation therapy is to restore the range of lost movements and improve local blood supply. With massage, traces of periarticular hemorrhages gradually resolve. Massage in this case helps the patient prevent atrophy of muscle fibers and strengthen the ligamentous apparatus of the elbow joint.

During the rehabilitation period, various passive movements are contraindicated for the patient.

Carrying various weights is prohibited; muscle overwork should be avoided. In this case, you should not do static supports and hangs, as well as exercises that cause pain.

If the patient exercises improperly, the following complications may occur:

Swelling in the area of the injured elbow joint;
Pain in the elbow joint, which may radiate to the forearm;
Deposition of calcium salts in the muscles of the upper limb (calcification);
Reflex contraction of the arm muscles;
Growth of bone deformities in the area of the elbow joint (“mustache”, “spurs”).

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What are the goals of joint development?

Working out the elbow joint after a fracture helps not only restore normal motor activity in the joint, but also helps restore damaged tendons, the rupture of which often accompanies an elbow fracture. This often requires surgical intervention.

After the operation, the recovery process is even slower than in cases where the injured person does not need the operation. Accordingly, you also have to wear a cast for much longer - sometimes up to 2.5-3 months, which leads to partial atrophy of the arm muscles and tendons.

Physical therapy will help restore the previous motor activity of the injured arm, but this will take time. The sensations in the elbow joint, as in the rest of the arm, during a set of exercises will not be the most pleasant and even quite painful. But you need to exercise, overcoming the pain, because this is the only way to completely return your hand to its previous “shape.”

If you do not perform therapeutic exercises after a fracture of the elbow joint, the elbow joint after a fracture can be immobilized throughout the rest of a person’s life, which will seriously affect the functionality of the injured arm and cause serious discomfort in everyday life.

When can remedial measures begin?

Exercise therapy for a fracture of the elbow joint should begin immediately after the limb has been fixed in a plaster cast.

You may ask, how to do exercises if your hand is immobilized? It’s very simple - you can work on those parts of the arm that are not covered with a fixing bandage. Those. You need to perform the exercises with your fingers, the movements of which directly affect the development of the muscles and tendons of the hand.

Elementary but effective gymnastics for rehabilitation

How to develop a broken elbow joint in the subsequent stages of recovery - when the cast is removed? You can move on to more complex exercises:

Move a chair with a backrest so that you sit sideways to the tabletop. Sit down and place your injured hand on the tabletop so that the latter cuts under your armpit. Starting from this position, the arm should extend and bend at the elbow joint. At the end point, the lower part of the upper limb should be pressed against the forearm, and then return to its original position and rest on the support, i.e. table top.
Sit on the floor and pick up any wheeled toy. Grasp it with your injured hand and roll it along the floor as far as your arm can reach. During the exercise, the shoulder joint must be securely fixed in one position - only the elbow joint should “work”.
You can develop a fractured joint by playing games with a ball. Throwing the ball into a basket or through a net is effective.
Place your feet shoulder-width apart and straighten up. Bend your upper body forward so that it is parallel to the floor but perpendicular to your lower body. Straighten your arms and try to reach the floor with them on the count of one, two, three, and then straighten your body. After straightening, place both hands behind your back and try to lock them into a “lock.”

Rehabilitation after a fracture should occur gradually. Be patient with yourself and attentive while performing any exercises with your injured arm. Stop immediately if you feel pain. Do not overdo it, so as not to provoke a re-fracture or displacement of the broken elbow joint. It is enough to perform the above exercises no more than 5 times daily - this approach to recovery is competent and effective.

Extension and bending of the arms at the elbows while taking a bath are also effective - i.e. in warm water. A warm bath helps improve blood circulation in the body and, accordingly, blood flow to the injured elbow, which contributes to its accelerated healing and recovery. Do not neglect the prescribed physiotherapeutic procedures, as well as visits to the massage room.

We hope that we have fully answered the question “how to develop the elbow joint.”

perelomanet.ru

When should classes start?

You can start physical therapy after a fracture of the elbow joint almost immediately after applying a cast - a few days after that. It is necessary to perform simple exercises for the fingers, but first you need to consult a doctor. Sometimes, after a fracture, specialists prohibit any movement of the injured limb or its hand. If there are no such contraindications, start practicing daily:

Clench and unclench your fingers into a fist.
Spread your fingers.
Alternately perform circular movements with each finger.
Buy regular plasticine and knead it, maintaining motor skills.

Basics of exercise therapy for developing the elbow after removing the cast

Physical exercise after an elbow fracture is required immediately after removing the plaster cast, as the joint will lose its former flexibility. If you cannot straighten your arm at the elbow after a fracture and you decide to do gymnastics, follow certain rules:

Perform any movements using a special bandage to limit physical activity. You can read more about how to choose an elbow joint brace on our website.
Exercise regularly and avoid discomfort or pain.
Exercises to develop an elbow after a fracture always exclude weight-bearing exercises, be it hanging from a bar or lifting weights.
It is recommended to actively bend and straighten the arm at the elbow no earlier than a month after the removal of the cast.

What exercises will help develop your elbow after a fracture?

As a rule, the exercise therapy complex when developing the elbow joint is divided into several periods. The first is started on the second day after removal of the plaster. Do breathing exercises (sitting on a chair, take deep breaths and exhales), and also start making finger movements according to the method described at the beginning of the article, if you have not done them. These exercises will prevent swelling and discomfort in the elbow joint, and also normalize blood circulation.

For the second rehabilitation period In case of a fracture of the elbow joint, you will need a set of exercises for physical therapy, which can be selected by your doctor.

To warm up, place your hand on a soft pillow in front of you and begin to tense and relax all the muscles of the upper limb.
Do alternate bending and extension of the arm with the elbow lying on the pillow, and then you can proceed to the next one physical therapy exercise after a broken elbow.
Lie on the floor or bed, raise your arm up and smoothly bend it at the elbow, and then straighten it. Continue to gently perform this movement, developing the joint. If the elbow does not fully extend after a fracture, perform it in partial amplitude.
Without changing position, bend your limb at the elbow and begin to perform circular movements with your hand, rotating it in one direction to the limit, and in the other.
Lie down on a flat surface with your arms along your body, and then perform the following movement: bend your limbs at the elbow joint, and then straighten them, lifting them up above you.

www.sportobzor.ru

People leading active image Those who regularly engage in sports often suffer from such a common injury as a broken hand. The elbow is also injured quite often - this is a very painful injury, after which complications and dysfunction of the limb often arise.

The prerequisites for fractures and other injuries of the elbow joint are weakening of the ligaments and tendons surrounding it. The most severe complication, if the elbow is injured, the arm is completely immobile, while after a fracture of other joints, mobility remains, although limited.

In addition, a fracture of the elbow joint is not always a damage to bone tissue; sometimes immobility occurs due to a tendon rupture.

What is elbow joint development?

The treatment program, as well as rehabilitation after it, directly depends on the type of fracture of the elbow joint. Fractures occur mainly when falling on a limb or strong impact with a blunt object. The patient suffers greatly from pain due to injuries to the elbow joint and cannot move his arm.

After applying a splint and taking a painkiller, if you have such an injury to the elbow joint, you should immediately go to the emergency room. To accurately determine the severity of the fracture, the doctor will order an x-ray. After receiving the results, the doctor will make a diagnosis and determine what treatment and rehabilitation is needed.

Sometimes, if the elbow injury is particularly severe, surgery is required. After surgery, a plaster splint is applied to the joint, which cannot be removed for the next 6-10 weeks.

During this period it is carried out drug treatment, and after the plaster is removed, you will need to develop the joint by performing exercises prescribed by the doctor.

Why is it necessary to develop the elbow joint after the plaster is removed? The limb was completely immobilized for several weeks - this time is enough for the muscle and connective tissues to weaken and begin to atrophy. Their functionality needs to be restored.

To do this you need to do:

Exercises from physical therapy;
Massage;
Physiotherapy.

Recovery will take some time - you cannot immediately start doing intense exercises and overloading the injured joint.

Pain and discomfort may occur during the process, but this is not a reason to stop exercising. You just need to adjust the loads a little.

Exercises and massage during the rehabilitation period

Physical therapy is an opportunity naturally restore the function of the joint and limb, it is necessary after such a serious injury as a fracture of the elbow joint. If the exercises are not performed or performed in bad faith, the mobility of the joint may never return to its full extent.

Many patients believe that exercises should begin when the cast is removed. This is wrong. Low-impact exercises are prescribed immediately and should be started on the second day after the plaster splint is applied. Those joints that retain mobility and are free from a plaster cast are used.

If the elbow is injured, healthy shoulder and wrist joint quite capable of performing simple exercises without weights. Special exercises are also given for the fingers - their mobility also affects the development of the injured elbow.

Very often the limb with such injuries is swollen, which makes it difficult to perform exercises. In this case, it is recommended to lie on your back and move the affected limb behind your back, after which you can continue to perform the exercises available in this position.

As the tissues recover, the doctor prescribes exercises that place stress directly on the elbow joint.

It is important to remember that you cannot bend or straighten your arm at the elbow joint at first.

Before classes, the plaster cast is removed for a while, as well as after completing the exercises, it will need to be put on again.

Restorative gymnastics is performed as follows:

The patient sits on a chair at the table, and the injured limb is lowered onto the table.
When engaging the shoulder joint, the patient should try to lift the elbow off the table surface.
Next, the hands are joined into a lock and the patient should try to lift them up and behind the head.

Performing these exercises is not so easy, although they may seem simple. You need to make an effort, show endurance and willpower, but it is completely justified - the functionality of the limb will be restored much faster.

After removing the plaster, the development of the joint consists of performing exercises to flex and extend the arm at the elbow joint; loads are also given gradually.

The massage is performed when the limb is freed from the cast. This is very effective method recovery, massage stimulates blood circulation and thereby prevents muscle tissue wasting.

You can perform massage earlier, when the limb is still immobilized in a plaster cast. In this case it is massaged shoulder girdle And top part chest– such actions also support blood circulation and promote recovery nerve endings associated with the spinal cord.

The moment of complete recovery and return to full life will bring the patient closer to a balanced diet. Vitamins C and E have a very beneficial effect on joint ligaments.

You can’t do without collagen - this substance is the basis of connective tissues in the human body and is responsible for their firmness and elasticity.

Collagen in large quantities contain the following products:

Poultry and sea fish;
Any seafood;
Some fruits - persimmons, peaches;
Cereals – buckwheat and oatmeal.

Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, and this is very important for such complex injuries as a fracture, however, others will also be required. All the body’s resources are devoted to restoring bone tissue, which is why it becomes especially susceptible to infections and viruses, which will complicate and prolong treatment.

Vitamin C can be obtained from cabbage, sweet peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, citrus fruits, rose hips and black currants.

In fact, the human body is unique; its tissues are capable of regenerating on their own, naturally. But it is within the power of a person to help this process and significantly speed it up.