Reliable Treatment for Elbow Fractures in PA

An elbow fracture occurs when at least one of the bones of the elbow joint breaks. A fracture can be a partial or complete break, and may involve crushed bones or pieces of bone that break through the skin (an open fracture). A fractured elbow requires medical attention.

At UPMC, our orthopedic teams offer clinical expertise to care for patients with elbow fractures.

Elbow Fracture Causes

Elbow fractures are typically caused by trauma from sports injuries, car accidents or falls. If you’ve fallen directly on your outstretched hands, it can result in an elbow fracture. Repetitive motions, or overuse injuries, also cause fractures. The most common types of elbow fractures in children and elderly adults happen above the elbow.

If your elbow fracture is the result of a serious accident or injury, seek emergency medical care or call 911.

Elbow Fracture Symptoms

Common symptoms of elbow fractures include:

• Bruising
• Deformity
• Swelling
• Pain
• Tenderness
• Difficulty moving the arm

In some cases, you may hear a snapping or grinding noise at the moment of injury. If you have a radial fracture, it may be very painful to rotate your palm up or down.

Elbow Fracture Treatment at UPMC

Orthopedic providers at UPMC focus on healing bones and preventing future fractures from occurring. Depending on the severity of your elbow fracture, you may be seen by an orthopedic surgeon who will set the bones with metal plates, pins and screws. If the break is smaller, your provider may be able to set the bone(s) with a cast or splint.

UPMC is dedicated to reliable and effective treatment for elbow fractures in Wellsboro, Lock Haven, Muncy, and Williamsport, PA.