Radial Head Fracture: Understanding, Treatment, and Recovery

Overview: What is a Radial Head Fracture?

A radial head fracture is described when a break in the rounded top part of the radius bone, which is located near the elbow joint. This injury commonly occurs as a result of a fall onto a hand with the arm outstretched, causing the force to travel up the arm and impact the elbow. Radial head fractures can vary in severity, ranging from small, non-displaced fractures to more complex, displaced fractures that may involve multiple fragments.

Types of Radial Head Fractures

Radial head fractures are classified by the extent of the fracture and the amount of displacement. The most commonly used classification system is the Mason Classification, which divides radial head fractures into three main types:

Type I: Non-displaced Fractures

Description: These are small fractures or cracks in the radial head with little to no displacement of the bone fragments.
Symptoms: Typically involve mild pain and swelling, with some limitations in elbow movement, but the overall function of the joint is usually maintained.
Treatment: Often treated conservatively with a sling or splint and early mobilisation to prevent stiffness.

Type II: Displaced Fractures

Description: These fractures involve a displacement of the bone fragments, usually with a single large fragment that may be shifted slightly from its normal position.
Symptoms: Moderate pain, swelling, and significant restriction in elbow movement, particularly in rotating the forearm.
Treatment: Depending on the degree of displacement, treatment may involve immobilisation or surgery might be needed to realign and stabilise the fragments, often using screws or plates.

Type III: Comminuted Fractures

Description: These are more severe fractures where the radial head is broken into multiple pieces (comminuted), and the bone fragments are often displaced.
Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, and a marked loss of function in the elbow joint, with an inability to rotate the forearm.
Treatment: Surgical intervention is typically required, which may involve reconstructing the radial head with screws or plates or, in some cases, removing the radial head entirely (radial head excision) and possibly replacing it with a prosthesis.

Type IV: Radial Head Fracture with Elbow Dislocation

Description: In this type, the radial head fracture is accompanied by an elbow dislocation. The dislocation often complicates the injury and requires more complex treatment.
Symptoms: Severe pain, visible deformity, and a complete inability to move the elbow.
Treatment: It is important to reduce the fracture rapidly if it is dislocated, followed by surgical repair of the fracture. This often requires advanced surgical techniques to address both the fracture and the dislocation.

Prevalence of Radial Head Fractures

Radial head fractures are one of the most common types of elbow fractures, particularly in adults. They account for approximately 20-30% of all elbow fractures and about 33% of fractures involving the proximal (upper) radius.

Demographics:

Age: Radial head fractures typically occur in adults, with the highest incidence among those aged 30-50 years. They are less common in children, who are more likely to experience fractures of the distal radius or other types of forearm fractures.
Gender: These fractures are more prevalent in women than in men, likely due to a higher incidence of osteoporosis, which weakens the bones and makes them more susceptible to fractures from falls.

Symptoms and Causes

Causes of Radial Head Fractures

Falls onto an Outstretched Hand (FOOSH):

The most common cause of radial head fractures is falling onto an outstretched hand. The impact force travels up the arm, concentrating at the elbow and causing the radial head to fracture.

Direct Trauma to the Elbow:

A direct blow to the elbow, such as from a fall or an accident, can lead to a radial head fracture. This type of injury is often seen in car accidents or during contact sports.

Twisting Injuries:

Rotational Forces: Sudden, forceful twisting of the forearm, especially during activities like arm wrestling or in certain sports, can also cause the radial head to fracture.

Risk Factors for Radial Head Fractures

Age:

Adults: Radial head fractures are more common in adults, as bone density and coordination may decrease with age.

Osteoporosis:

Bone Weakness: Individuals with osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, are at a higher risk of fractures, including radial head fractures, even from minor falls.

Gender:

Women: Women, especially post-menopausal women, are more prone to radial head fractures due to a higher prevalence of osteoporosis.

High-Risk Activities:

Sports and Occupations: Participation in activities or sports with a high risk of falls or direct trauma to the arm (e.g., cycling, skiing, contact sports) increases the likelihood of sustaining a radial head fracture.
Occupational Hazards: Jobs that involve physical labour or high-risk environments also contribute to the risk.

Previous Elbow Injuries:

History of Trauma: Individuals who have had prior injuries to the elbow or surrounding bones are more susceptible to fractures due to the potential weakening of the bone structure.

Complications of Radial Head Fractures

Stiffness and Loss of Motion:

Elbow and Forearm: One of the most common complications is stiffness in the elbow joint, leading to a limited range of motion, especially in forearm rotation (supination and pronation).

Nonunion or Malunion:

Improper Healing: In some cases, the fracture may not heal properly (nonunion) or may heal in a misaligned position (malunion), leading to chronic pain, deformity, or functional impairment.

Osteoarthritis:

Joint Degeneration: Radial head fractures can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the elbow joint, particularly if the fracture involves the joint surface or if there is residual instability.

Nerve Damage:

Radial Nerve Injury: The radial nerve runs close to the radial head, and fractures in this area can sometimes cause nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Instability and Chronic Pain:

Elbow Instability: In severe fractures, especially those involving dislocation, the elbow joint may become unstable, leading to chronic pain and difficulty with weight-bearing activities.

Compartment Syndrome:

Rare but Serious: In rare cases, swelling around the fracture site can lead to compartment syndrome, a condition where pressure builds up in the muscles, potentially causing severe pain, muscle damage, and nerve injury. Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical intervention.

Due to the risk of complications from these fractures, it is important to seek specialist orthopaedic care. Access Ortho offers rapid expert care for fractures and is staffed by orthopaedic specialists.

Diagnosis and Tests

How are Radial Head Fractures Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a radial head fracture involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. A detailed patient history is taken and a physical examination is completed, followed by imaging tests which help confirm the diagnosis and severity of the fracture.

Patient History:

Injury Details: The medical team will ask about the circumstances of the injury, including how the fall or trauma occurred, the position of the arm at the time of impact, and the immediate symptoms that followed.
Symptom Review: Patients are asked about the nature and intensity of pain, swelling, bruising, and any difficulty moving the elbow or forearm.

Physical Examination:

Inspection and Palpation: The provider will inspect the elbow for signs of swelling, bruising, and deformity. They will also palpate (feel) the radial head and surrounding structures to assess tenderness and identify any crepitus (grating sensation) or instability.
Range of Motion Testing: The provider will assess the movement of the elbow and forearm, particularly focusing on flexion, extension, and forearm rotation (supination and pronation). Pain during these movements can indicate a fracture.

Which Tests Do Providers Use to Diagnose Radial Head Fractures?

X-rays:

X-rays are the first-line imaging study used to diagnose radial head fractures. They provide a clear view of the bones in the elbow, helping to identify the fracture’s location, type, and extent.
Typically, three views are taken: anteroposterior (AP), lateral, and oblique. These angles help in visualising the radial head from different perspectives and are crucial for assessing the alignment and any displacement of bone fragments.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan:

A CT scan is often used when the X-ray findings are inconclusive or if the fracture is complex. CT scans provide cross-sectional images of the bones and can better illustrate fractures that involve multiple fragments or joint surfaces.
CT scans may be beneficial in surgical planning, as they offer a more precise view of the fracture anatomy.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):

While not commonly used as the first test, an MRI may be employed if there is a suspicion of associated soft tissue injuries, such as ligament tears or cartilage damage, that may not be seen on X-rays or CT scans.
MRIs are also helpful in cases where the diagnosis is unclear or if there’s concern about complications like avascular necrosis (bone death due to loss of blood supply).

Ultrasound:

Ultrasound is sometimes used as a supplementary tool to assess soft tissues around the elbow or to guide procedures such as aspiration (removal of fluid) if there’s a suspected joint effusion (fluid in the joint).

The Access Ortho medical team are highly skilled in assessing and treating all upper and lower limb fractures. Contact Access Ortho for an appointment to ensure the correct diagnosis is made rapidly.

Specific Considerations for Radial Head Fractures

Radial head fractures have several important implications for elbow function, particularly concerning elbow stability and potential ligament injuries. These considerations are crucial for determining the best treatment approach and ensuring a successful recovery.

Impact on Elbow Stability

Role of the Radial Head in Stability:
- The radial head plays a vital role in maintaining the stability of the elbow joint, especially during forearm rotation and load-bearing activities. It acts as a secondary stabiliser for the elbow, particularly in the context of valgus stress (outward force on the elbow) and axial loading (compression along the length of the arm).
- A fractured radial head can compromise this stabilising function, leading to instability in the elbow joint. This instability may manifest as a feeling of looseness, difficulty with weight-bearing activities, or a tendency for the elbow to dislocate.
Post-Fracture Instability:
- Displaced Fractures: In cases where the radial head fracture is displaced or comminuted (broken into several pieces), the elbow may become unstable, particularly if the fracture involves a significant portion of the radial head.
- Loss of Radial Head: If the radial head is severely injured and needs to be removed surgically, it may lead to chronic instability unless a prosthetic replacement is used.
- Long-Term Concerns: Elbow instability after a radial head fracture can result in chronic pain, decreased range of motion, and the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis over time.

Associated Ligament Injuries

Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury:
- The LCL complex, particularly the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL), is crucial for stabilising the elbow against varus stress (inward force). Radial head fractures often occur alongside LCL injuries, especially in cases of elbow dislocation.
- Signs and Symptoms: LCL injuries may present with lateral elbow pain, instability, and difficulty performing tasks that require elbow stability, such as pushing up from a chair.
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury:
- The MCL is essential for resisting valgus stress, and it may also be injured in conjunction with a radial head fracture, particularly in high-impact trauma.
- Impact: MCL injuries can further destabilise the elbow, complicating the recovery and rehabilitation.
Interosseous Membrane Injury:
- The interosseous membrane, a fibrous sheet connecting the radius and ulna along the forearm, may also be compromised in radial head fractures. Injury to this structure can affect forearm rotation and the overall stability of the elbow-forearm complex.
Terrible Triad Injury:
- Complex Injury: The “terrible triad” elbow injury involves a combination of a radial head fracture, a coronoid process fracture (part of the ulna), and an elbow dislocation. This type of injury is particularly challenging to treat due to extensive damage to both bony and ligamentous structures.
- Surgical Intervention: Managing such injuries typically requires surgical repair to restore stability and function to the elbow joint.

It is essential to seek orthopaedic care to manage radial head fractures. Access Ortho offers urgent appointments for fracture care.

Management and Treatment

How are Radial Head Fractures Treated?

The treatment approach for radial head fractures depend on the fracture, the degree of displacement, and the presence of any associated injuries. The goal is to restore elbow function while minimising complications.

Non-Surgical Management

Non-surgical treatment is typically recommended for less severe radial head fractures, particularly those that are non-displaced or minimally displaced.

Immobilisation:

Sling or Splint: A sling or splint is often used to immobilise the elbow, reducing pain and allowing the fracture to heal. Immobilisation is usually recommended for a short period, typically 1-2 weeks, to avoid stiffness.
Early Movement: While initial immobilisation is important, early movement is encouraged to prevent joint stiffness and promote a full range of motion. Gentle exercises may be started under the guidance of a physiotherapist.

Pain Management:

Medications: Ibuprofen or Panadol, are often used to manage pain and inflammation. Stronger pain medications may be prescribed on occasion.
Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the injured area can help minimise swelling and pain following the injury.

Physiotherapy:

Rehabilitation Exercises: Physiotherapy can play a role in improving strength, flexibility, and function to the elbow and forearm. Exercises will focus on improving movement, strengthening the muscles around the elbow, and regaining full use of the arm.
Preventing Stiffness: Regular physiotherapy can prevent complications such as elbow stiffness, a common issue after radial head fractures.

Surgical Interventions

Surgery is typically considered when the radial head fracture is displaced, involves multiple fragments, or involves other injuries such as elbow dislocation or ligament tears.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF):

Realignment of Fracture: ORIF involves surgically realigning the bone fragments and securing them to hold them in place while the bone heals.
Indications: This approach is commonly used for fractures that are displaced or involve multiple fragments, where non-surgical methods are unlikely to restore proper joint alignment and function.
Post-Operative Care: After ORIF, the patient will typically need a period of immobilisation followed by physiotherapy to regain strength and mobility.

Radial Head Excision:

Removal of Radial Head: In some cases, particularly when the radial head is severely shattered (comminuted) and cannot be reconstructed, the radial head may be surgically removed. This procedure, known as a radial head excision, can help alleviate pain and restore some elbow function.
Impact on Stability: Removal of the radial head can lead to instability in the elbow, particularly if other stabilising structures like ligaments are also damaged.

Radial Head Replacement (Arthroplasty):

Prosthetic Replacement: In situations where the radial head is irreparably damaged, a prosthetic radial head may be implanted to restore elbow stability and function. This procedure is often used in more complex fractures, particularly in the context of a “terrible triad” injury.
Long-Term Considerations: Radial head replacement aims to maintain elbow joint stability and prevent long-term complications like arthritis. However, careful monitoring may be required to ensure the prosthesis remains functional.

Ligament Repair or Reconstruction:

Addressing Ligament Damage: If the fracture is associated with ligament injuries, such as a torn lateral collateral ligament (LCL), surgical repair or reconstruction of the ligament may be necessary to restore stability to the elbow.
Comprehensive Approach: Surgery may involve a combination of ORIF, radial head replacement, and ligament repair to fully restore joint function and prevent instability.

Access Ortho will assess and make a treatment plan relevant to your injury to ensure the best outcome. If you require surgery, Access Ortho will help you find a surgeon and provide a referral. Non-surgical management will occur within the clinic.

Prevention

How Can I Prevent Radial Head Fractures?

To prevent or minimise the risk of Radial Head Fractures, you need to consider the following:

Prevent Falls: Ensure home safety by removing tripping hazards, using proper lighting, and wearing supportive footwear. Improve balance through exercises like yoga or tai chi.
Strengthen Bones and Muscles: Maintain bone health through a good diet and weight-bearing exercises. Strengthen muscles around the elbow and forearm with resistance training.
Use Protective Gear: Wear elbow pads and wrist guards during high-risk activities like cycling or skateboarding. Practice proper techniques in sports to avoid injury.
Be Cautious in High-Risk Situations: Follow safety guidelines in the workplace, avoid risky activities, and stay aware of your surroundings.
Regular Health Check-Ups: Screen for osteoporosis and review medications with your healthcare provider to reduce fall risks.

Outlook / Prognosis

What to Expect After a Radial Head Fracture

After a radial head fracture, your recovery journey involves several stages, including pain management, rehabilitation, and gradually returning to your normal activities. The specifics of your experience will depend on the fracture, the treatment method (non-surgical or surgical), and your overall health.

Pain and Swelling:

Initial Symptoms: Right after the injury, you can expect significant pain, swelling, and possibly bruising around the elbow. This discomfort is typically managed with pain medications, ice therapy, and immobilisation of the elbow.
Pain Management: Ibuprofen or Panadol are commonly used. You may be prescribed stronger pain medications if the pain is severe.

Immobilisation and Early Movement:

Short-Term Immobilisation: Your elbow may be placed in a sling or splint to immobilise the joint and allow the fracture to begin healing. Immobilisation typically lasts 1-2 weeks, depending on the fracture’s severity.
Early Movement: To prevent stiffness, you will likely be encouraged to start gentle range-of-motion exercises early in the recovery process under the guidance of a physiotherapist.

Physiotherapy and rehabilitation: (If required)

Rehabilitation Exercises: Physiotherapy is a key part of recovery. It focuses on movement, strength, and function in the elbow and forearm. Exercises will be gradually introduced and increased in intensity as healing progresses.
Preventing Stiffness: Regular physiotherapy helps prevent complications such as joint stiffness, a common issue following elbow fractures.

4Gradual Return to Activities:

Activity Modification: Initially, you’ll need to avoid heavy lifting, pushing, or activities that strain the elbow. As you recover you can gradually return to normal activities, but strenuous or high-impact activities should be postponed until complete recovery.
Timeline for Resumption: Depending on the treatment and your progress, you might be able to resume light activities within a few weeks, gradually returning to more demanding tasks over time.

Recovery Time from a Radial Head Fracture

The recovery time from a radial head fracture can vary widely. It will be altered depending on factors like the fracture’s severity, the type of treatment, and individual healing rates.

Non-Surgical Recovery:

Healing Time: For non-displaced or minimally displaced fractures treated without surgery, bone healing typically occurs within 6-8 weeks.
Return to Normal Activities: Most patients can return to light daily activities within a few weeks, with a full return to pre-injury activities, including sports, taking around 3-4 months.

Surgical Recovery:

Extended Healing: Recovery from surgery, such as Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) or radial head replacement, may take longer. Bone healing still occurs within 6-8 weeks, but full functional recovery may take 4-6 months.
Post-Surgical Care: After surgery, you’ll likely require a more extended rehabilitation period to restore strength and range of motion. Your surgeon will guide you on the stages of recovery, including when it’s safe to return to more demanding activities.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention?

If you suspect a radial head fracture or experience complications during recovery, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Early intervention will minimise complications and ensure optimal healing.

Signs That Require Immediate Care

Severe Pain or Swelling:

Unmanageable Pain: If you experience severe pain not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications or worsening despite treatment, seek medical attention.
Excessive Swelling: If swelling around the elbow rapidly increases or does not improve with elevation and ice, it may indicate a more severe issue or associated injury.

Loss of Function or Movement:

Inability to Move the Elbow: If you are unable to move your elbow, forearm, or wrist, or if movement is significantly limited, this could be an indication that you require immediate assessment.

Deformity or Misalignment:

Visible Deformity: If you notice visible deformity or abnormal positioning of the elbow, such as an unusual angle or bulging, seek immediate medical care as this may indicate a severe fracture or dislocation.

Numbness or Tingling:

Neurological Symptoms: If you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm or hand, it may indicate nerve involvement or compression that needs prompt evaluation.

Signs of Complications:

Infection Symptoms: Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge at the injury site, which may indicate a post-surgical infection or open fracture.
Fever: A fever following a fracture or surgical procedure can be a sign of infection or other complications that require medical attention.

Symptoms of Compartment Syndrome:

Severe Pain and Swelling: Compartment syndrome, a rare but serious condition, can occur if swelling increases pressure in the muscles and tissues around the fracture. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and decreased ability to move the affected limb. This condition requires urgent surgical intervention.

Dislocated Elbow or Fracture-Dislocation:

Elbow Dislocation: If the elbow is visibly dislocated or a fracture and dislocation are combined, seek immediate medical care. This typically requires urgent realignment and treatment to prevent long-term damage.

Summary

Access Ortho offers rapid appointments for suspected or known fractures. If you experience severe pain, excessive swelling, significant loss of function, visible bone deformity, numbness or tingling, signs of infection, or symptoms of compartment syndrome, it is important to visit your nearest emergency department. Immediate care is also necessary if you have a dislocated elbow or fracture-dislocation. If you have any concerns, Contact Access Ortho, and we will advise you on where to seek care or provide an

Understanding Fracture Clinics

Role of Fracture Clinics in Radial Head Fracture Management

Fracture clinics, such as Access Ortho, play a crucial role in managing radial head fractures by providing specialised care and ensuring a comprehensive approach to recovery. Access Ortho is dedicated to the treatment of fractures and musculoskeletal injuries.

Initial Assessment and Diagnosis:

Specialised Evaluation: Access Ortho Fracture Clinic provides thorough evaluations by orthopedic nurse practitioners and orthopaedic surgeons experienced in diagnosing and treating fractures, including radial head fractures.
Imaging and Testing: They can refer for X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to accurately assess the fracture’s severity and plan appropriate treatment.

Treatment Planning:

Individualised Treatment Plans: Based on the fracture type and associated injuries, Access Ortho will develop personalised treatment plans that may include non-surgical management or referral for surgical interventions.
Multidisciplinary Approach: Treatment plans often involve input from various specialists, such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists. Access Ortho can refer to and coordinate this.

Non-Surgical Management:

Casting and Splinting: Access Ortho Fracture Clinic provides expert cast or splint application for non-displaced or minimally displaced radial head fractures.
Pain Management: They offer guidance on managing pain and swelling, including medication prescriptions and recommendations for ice therapy.
Follow-up Care: Follow-up care with orthopaedic surgeons in Access Ortho will be arranged until a full recovery is made.

Surgical Interventions:

Access Ortho will coordinate a referral if surgery is required to ensure it is arranged promptly.

Education and Support:

Patient Education: Access Ortho will provide education on managing the fracture at home, including how to use assistive devices, perform simple exercises, and avoid activities that could hinder healing.

Access Ortho offers urgent appointments for fractures, sprains and strains. Our private fracture clinic provides care for acute upper and lower limb injuries.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What Does a Radial Head Fracture Feel Like?

A radial head fracture typically causes:

Difficulty Moving the Elbow: Pain and swelling can limit movement and make it challenging to perform activities that involve elbow movement.
Pain: Sharp or aching pain around the outer elbow, which may worsen with movement or pressure.
Swelling and Bruising: Swelling around the elbow joint and possible bruising along the forearm.
Tenderness: Increased sensitivity to touch around the radial head area (the outer part of the elbow).

Can You Move Your Arm with a Radial Head Fracture?

You may be able to move your arm, but full or normal movement may be difficult, and you might experience stiffness and discomfort, especially with activities that involve forearm rotation or bending and straightening the elbow.

How Long Does It Take for a Radial Head Fracture to Heal?

Healing time for a radial fracture depends on the fracture and the required treatment.

Surgical Healing: For fractures that require surgery, bone healing still occurs within 6-8 weeks, but rehabilitation and complete recovery can take 4-6 months, depending on the complexity of the injury and the type of surgical intervention.
Non-Surgical Healing: Healing generally takes about 6-8 weeks for non-displaced or minimally displaced fractures. Full recovery, including regaining strength and range of motion, may take 3-4 months.

Will I Need Surgery for My Radial Head Fracture?

The need for surgery to repair a radial head fracture depends on the injury.

Non-Surgical Management: Many radial head fractures can be managed with immobilisation, pain management, and physiotherapy.

Surgical Intervention: Surgery may be necessary in the following situations:

Comminuted Fractures: If the bone is shattered into multiple pieces.
Displaced Fractures: If the bone fragments are not correctly aligned.
Associated Injuries: If there are additional injuries to the elbow, such as dislocation or ligament damage.

What’s the Difference Between a Radial Head Fracture and an Elbow Dislocation?

A radial head fracture is a break in the radial head, the top part of the radius bone near the elbow. It affects the bone’s structure and may impact joint stability.
An elbow dislocation is when the bones of the elbow joint (the humerus, radius, and ulna) are forced out of their normal position. It involves the displacement of the bones and can damage surrounding ligaments, tendons, and nerves.
A radial head fracture can occur alongside an elbow dislocation, complicating the injury and requiring a more comprehensive treatment approach.

How Does a Radial Head Fracture Affect Daily Activities?

Following a radial head fracture, you will likely experience decreased movement and pain, which will affect daily activities.

Pain and Discomfort: Activities that involve lifting, pushing, or rotating the forearm may be painful or challenging.
Limited Mobility: Due to reduced range of motion and strength, daily tasks that require elbow movement, such as reaching, opening doors, or handling objects, might be affected.
Temporary Adjustments: During the recovery period, you may need to modify activities or use assistive devices to manage daily tasks.

What Exercises Can Help Rehabilitate a Radial Head Fracture?

You must take the advice of your medical team on what rehabilitation is required or they may refer you to physiotherapy following a radial head fracture. The following are exercises that may be suggested.

Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and movement exercises to regain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
Strengthening Exercises: Exercises are given to improve the strength of the muscles, particularly around the elbow, such as bicep curls, tricep extensions, and wrist curls, as recommended by a physiotherapist.
Functional Exercises: Activities that mimic daily tasks to improve coordination and functional use of the elbow and forearm.

Can a Radial Head Fracture Lead to Arthritis?

A radial head fracture can lead to arthritis, particularly if it involves significant joint damage or if complications such as poor healing or joint instability occur.

The risk of developing arthritis increases with more severe fractures or if the radial head is removed or replaced. Regular follow-up and proper management can help mitigate this risk.

Are Radial Head Fractures Common in Sports Injuries?

Radial head fractures are relatively common in sports, particularly those involving contact or falls, such as football, rugby, and skateboarding. Proper technique, protective gear, and strength training can help reduce the risk of such injuries.

What’s the Long-Term Outlook for a Radial Head Fracture?

Most people recover well with appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, regaining full or near-full elbow function.

Potential Complications: Long-term issues can include stiffness, pain, or the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis, especially if the fracture was severe or poorly managed.
Monitoring and Care: Regular follow-up with healthcare providers and adherence to rehabilitation recommendations are essential for ensuring the best possible long-term outcome.