Elbow Fracture & Dislocation Treatment in Berkeley, CA
Comprehensive Treatment for Complex Elbow Injuries
Elbow fractures and dislocations can occur from incidents as minor as a fall or as severe as high-impact accidents, such as car crashes or skiing collisions. These injuries often cause pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the elbow. Dr. Rebecca S. Yu specializes in diagnosing and treating these complex injuries, ensuring you receive the care needed to restore function and mobility.
Understanding Elbow Fractures and Dislocations
Elbow Fractures: Occur when one or more bones in the elbow joint (humerus, radius, ulna) are broken.
Elbow Dislocations: Happen when the joint surfaces are forced out of alignment, which may also involve ligament damage.
Comminuted Fractures: Bones are broken into multiple pieces.
Symptoms typically include:
Severe pain and swelling
Bruising and limited range of motion
Visible deformity in some cases
Diagnostic Process
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Dr. Yu will evaluate your injury using:
X-rays: To assess the type and extent of the fracture or dislocation.
CT Scans: For more detailed imaging in complex cases.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and may include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
Closed Reduction: Realigning the joint in the emergency department for dislocations.
Splinting or Casting: Stabilizing the elbow to allow proper healing.
Physical Therapy: Restoring strength and range of motion during recovery.
Surgical Treatments
For severe or unstable injuries, surgery may be required, such as:
Fracture Fixation: Using pins, plates, or screws to secure broken bones.
Ligament Repair: Reconstructing torn or ruptured ligaments for joint stability.
Olecranon Fracture Treatment in Berkeley, CA
Expert Care for a Common Elbow Injury
The olecranon is the bony point of the elbow at the top of the ulna, a bone that plays a key role in elbow movement and stability. Olecranon fractures often occur due to direct trauma, such as a fall or impact to the elbow, and they can cause significant pain and functional limitations.
Dr. Rebecca S. Yu specializes in diagnosing and treating olecranon fractures, ensuring the best outcomes for restoring elbow strength and mobility.
Understanding Olecranon Fractures
When the olecranon is fractured, the triceps muscle's attachment can pull the bone fragments apart, making healing difficult without intervention.
Symptoms typically include:
Pain and swelling around the elbow
Difficulty straightening the arm
Visible deformity or bruising
Diagnostic Process
Dr. Yu will evaluate your injury using:
X-rays: To determine the type and severity of the fracture.
Additional Imaging: If needed, for more complex injuries.
Most olecranon fractures require surgical intervention to restore proper alignment and function.
Treatment Options
Dr. Yu will discuss the best surgical approach for your specific injury based on your X-rays and overall health.
Non-Surgical Treatments
In rare cases of stable or minor fractures, non-surgical treatments may be considered, including:
Immobilization with a splint or cast
Pain management and physical therapy
Surgical Treatments
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Reattaching bone fragments with plates, screws, or wires to stabilize the fracture.
Tension Band Wiring: Using wires to hold the fragments together while the bone heals.
Fragment Removal: For cases where small bone fragments cannot be repaired.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from olecranon fractures typically involves a combination of:
- Immobilization to protect the repair site.
- Gradual physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength.
- Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.
Dr. Yu will work with you to develop a personalized recovery plan, ensuring you regain full function of your elbow.
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and Dislocations here
Experience the Freedom of Waterproof Healing
Our casts feature advanced Gore-Tex® liner technology, allowing you to get them wet without compromising your recovery. Enjoy comfort, convenience, and enhanced healing—because life doesn’t stop for a cast.
Why Choose Dr. Yu?
The elbow is a complex joint, and recovery requires careful management. Dr. Yu will work closely with you to ensure a full understanding of your injury and treatment plan, including:
What to expect during the healing process
Post-treatment rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility
Ready to Begin Your Journey to Recovery?
Take the First Step Toward a Pain-Free Life
Dr. Yu and her team are here to guide you every step of the way. Start your journey toward better function and less pain today.
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