Elbow Pathologies

Question 1

Elbow Dislocation MOI + SSx + Treatment

Answer 1

MOI:
-FOOSH w/ elbow in hyperextension
-rotation with elbow flexed
-the ulna and radius may be displaced posteriorly (most common), anteriorly, medially, or laterally
SSx
-obvious deformity, loss of function, extreme pain
-profuse hemorrhage and swelling
-often associated with fractures
-complications with nerves and blood vessels
Treatment
-ice, splint, refer

Question 2

Radial Head Dislocation MOI + SSx + Treatment

Answer 2

MOI
-aka nursemaid’s elbow
-distraction of elbow joint causes the annular ligament to slip over the head of the radius
SSx
-possible deformation
-pain, swelling
-inability to pronate or supinate
Treatment
-reduce and immobilize or refer

Question 3

Supracondylar Fracture MOI + SSx + Treatment

Answer 3

MOI
-almost exclusively found in kids
-result from a fall directly on a flexed elbow or a hyperextension mechanism
-fracture “above” the condyles
SSx
-may or may not result in visual deformity (how to discriminate between elbow dislocation? refer)
-hemorrhaging, swelling, muscle spasm
-commonly associated with neurovascular consequences
Treatment
-ice and sling for support refer for xray

Question 4

Supracondylar Fracture Gartland Classifications

Answer 4

Type 1: hairline crack
Type 2: displaced anterior wall, intact posterior hinge
Type 3: complete displacement (both anterior and posterior wall)

Question 5

Olecranon Process Fracture MOI + SSx + Treatment

Answer 5

MOI
-more common in skeletally mature
-direct blows-falling on flexed elbow
SSx
-pain
-crepitus
-deformity
Treatment
-ice and sling for support, refer

Question 6

Radial Head Fracture MOI + SSx + Treatment

Answer 6

MOI
-compression FOOSH
-concurrently with elbow dislocations
SSx
-pain w/ flexion, extension, pronation, and supination
Treatment
-ice and sling for support, refer

Question 7

Ulnar Collateral Ligament Sprain MOI + SSx + Treatment

Answer 7

MOI
-UCL is stressed during valgus
-direct blow to outside of elbow
-repetitive throwing
SSx
-pain along medial aspect of elbow
-tenderness over UCL
-paresthesia, positive Tinel’s sign
-pain during acceleration phase of throwing
-special test: valgus stress test, moving valgus stress test, posterolateral stability test
Treatment
-RICE and NSAIDS
-strengthen surrounding muscles
-Tommy John Surgery

Question 8

Olecranon Bursitis MOI + SSx + Treatment

Answer 8

MOI
-direct blow to elbow
SSx
-pain, swelling, and point tender
-swelling is almost immediate and w/ out pain and heat
Treatment
-RICE
-aspiration if swelling doesn’t resolve
-can be padded in order to return to competition

Question 9

Golfer’s Elbow MOI + SSx + Treatment

Answer 9

MOI
-medial epicondylitis
-repeated forceful flexion of wrist and extreme elbow valgus
SSx
-point tender and mild swelling over medial epicondyle
-decrease extension ROM
-pain with active flexion or pronation
-pain with passive supination or extension