ELBOW HYPEREXTENSION

If you suffer from pain or deformity in the elbow, don’t hesitate to Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.

What Does Hyperextension Mean?

Hyperextension means “to extend further than normal”, and Hyperextension injuries can occur when the elbow bends too far backward, possibly damaging the elbow ligaments and causing large amounts of pain to the joint. If the elbow joint continues to bend even further, It may even dislocate out of place.

Elbow Hyperextension tends to occur from sudden accidents during activities such as martial arts, gymnastics, or sports. The most likely cause of an elbow hyperextension usually involves someone trying to catch themselves during a fall by extending their arms out to the front.

Symptoms For Elbow Hyperextension

In cases of mild to moderate elbow hyperextension, the injury may involve stretching or partial tearing of the ligaments, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness. Activities that require bending or straightening the elbow may exacerbate the discomfort. The joint may feel unstable or “loose,” and there may be a sensation of the joint “giving way” during movement.

Severe cases of elbow hyperextension can involve complete ligament tears or fractures, leading to more severe pain, swelling, and bruising. The joint may appear visibly deformed or dislocated. In some instances, nerve or blood vessel damage can occur, resulting in additional symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers.

Treatment Elbow Hyperextension

The treatment approach for elbow hyperextension depends on the severity and extent of the injury. For mild cases, conservative measures like rest, ice, compression, and elevation, along with immobilization and physical therapy exercises, may be sufficient to promote healing, reduce pain, and restore function.

In more severe cases, especially those involving significant ligament tears or fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damaged structures and restore stability to the joint. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are crucial components of the recovery process, focusing on strengthening the surrounding muscles, improving the range of motion, and retraining the joint for proper function.

It’s important to seek prompt medical evaluation and treatment for elbow hyperextension to prevent further damage and facilitate optimal recovery. A healthcare professional will assess the extent of the injury, provide appropriate interventions, and guide the rehabilitation process to help you regain full use of your elbow.

If you would like to speak to a Texas orthopedic upper extremity specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Telemedicine appointments are also available.