Elbow stiffness ?cause

[Fiona B]

Hi

Just wondering how you guys are all going, interested to hear your progress.

5 weeks ago I fractured radial head and capitela (?) - had open reduction with 2 pins. Was only in cast for 2.5 weeks as due to have a baby in a couple of weeks!!

Have been in ROM brace for 2 weeks - can get to about 100 flexion and 110 extension at a push with the brace on (think I'm reading it right) but can only slightly turn wrist face up and face down Feels very stuck and I feel very miserable - does anyone have advice. My baby is due in about 2 weeks and I need some movement to be able to nurse properly.

Everyone's telling me the elbow joints hard to heal so some positive advise would be good to hear

[kalacoconut]

Hi Fiona
Yes, unfortunately regaining ROM in the elbow is a real problem. I shattered the humerus at the elbow into multiple fragments in BOTH arms 6 months ago & recovery is very slow & limited. I have been advised to carry on with physiotherapy, but not too aggressively as this can cause bone growth into the muscles which is a non-reversible process. I find that massage helps a little.
What is a ROM brace? Is it like a dynamic splint? Can you explain what this is & how it works. It appears braces are not popular in the UK & I can't understand why not.
Kalacoconut