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Bluegrass Orthopaedics 3480 Yorkshire Medical Park Varied
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Elbow Fracture Specialist in Lexington, KY

Lexington Elbow Surgeons Offering Expert
Treatment for Fractures & Injuries

An elbow fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the elbow joint—the humerus, ulna, or radius. These fractures often result from trauma such as falling on an outstretched arm, direct impact, or sudden twisting of the joint. Symptoms typically include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the elbow. In more severe cases, you may notice a visible deformity or hear a pop at the time of injury.

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Person holding elbow with highlighted pain area and bone illustration indicating joint discomfort.

Do I Have an Elbow Fracture?

Common signs of an elbow fracture include sharp elbow pain, swelling around the joint, bruising, limited range of motion, and tenderness to touch. Some patients find it difficult or impossible to straighten or bend the elbow. If nerves or blood vessels are affected, you may experience numbness, tingling, or coldness in the hand or fingers. These symptoms should be evaluated as soon as possible to prevent long-term complications, such as stiffness or nerve damage.

Common Types of Elbow Fractures

Several different types of elbow fractures can occur, depending on the area of impact. Olecranon fractures affect the tip of the elbow and usually happen from a fall directly onto the elbow. Radial head fractures are common in adults and occur when falling on an outstretched arm. Distal humerus fractures involve the lower part of the upper arm bone and often require surgical repair. In children, supracondylar fractures just above the elbow joint are prevalent. Other complex injuries can involve multiple bones or dislocations and may require a more advanced treatment approach.

How Are Elbow Fractures Diagnosed?

Elbow fractures are diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and imaging studies. Your orthopedic specialist will assess pain level, range of motion, visible deformity, and signs of nerve or vascular damage. X-rays are typically the first step in confirming a fracture and identifying its location and severity. In more complex injuries, advanced imaging such as a CT scan may be necessary to evaluate the joint surface or determine the need for surgery.

What Are The Treatments for an Elbow Fracture?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Minor or non-displaced fractures may be treated with immobilization using a splint or sling, along with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, displaced fractures or those involving joint surfaces often require surgical intervention to realign the bones and stabilize the elbow. Surgical options may include pins, plates, screws, or tension-band wiring. After initial healing, physical therapy plays a key role in restoring motion and strength to the elbow.

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Meet Our
Elbow & Shoulder Team

Wallace L. Huff, JR., M.D.
Sports Medicine & Total Joint Replacement
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Owen McGonigle, M.D.
Sports Medicine Orthopedic Surgeon
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J. Martin Favetto, M.D.
Hand and Upper Extremity
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Ryan P. Donegan, M.D., M.S.
Shoulder and Elbow Specialist
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Victor Marwin, M.D., MBA
Hand & Upper Extremity Specialist
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Charles "Ched" Crouse, M.D.
Orthopaedic Surgeon
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How Long Does It Take to Recover From an Elbow Fracture?

Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the fracture and the treatment approach. Most elbow fractures heal within 6 to 8 weeks, but full recovery may take several months. Early rehabilitation and guided exercises are crucial in preventing stiffness and restoring full function. Delayed treatment can lead to long-term issues, including arthritis, chronic pain, or restricted mobility.

If you believe you may have an elbow fracture, Bluegrass Orthopaedics offers expert care and convenient access through our orthopedic walk-in clinic. No appointment is needed, and our experienced providers can quickly assess your injury and create a personalized treatment plan to help you heal and return to your normal activities.

Dr. Owen McGonigle, sports medicine specialist, speaking in a Bluegrass Orthopaedics video interview.

He is a fabulous provider and surgeon, personable and professional.

Anonymous

He is very personable and is very kind and knows his stuff.

Anonymous

Dr. Denehy is 5 stars for sure- Skilled surgeon, interested and caring I would highly recommend him

Ann Banks

Great Doc! No nonsense, but really knows her stuff. Do what she says and your recovery will most likely be complete! The environment and medical staff are kind and very helpful!

Anonymous

I was very satisfied with my visit with Dr. Favetto. His exam was thorough, and I understood the plan of care. He also picked up on symptoms other physicians have missed.

Anonymous

Great Surgeon I am very pleased with the surgical skills of Dr. Harrod. My foot surgery was a great SUCCESS! His attention to his patients during and also after surgery is very high quality. His Clinical Assistant, Miriam, was... Great Surgeon I am very pleased with the surgical skills of Dr. Harrod. My foot surgery was a great SUCCESS! His attention to his patients during and also after surgery is very high quality. His Clinical Assistant, Miriam, was wonderful. I have already recommended his services and will continue to do so!

Anonymous

Procedure was done expertly with no complications. Healing time was excellent. Dr. O'Neill was very thorough in explaining the procedure and necessary follow up instructions.

Peggy Crawford

From the outset, I received excellent care. But more importantly, he always took time to listen, and to understand, and then respond honestly and with straight talk. If you want something sugarcoated, look elsewhere. I always felt like... From the outset, I received excellent care. But more importantly, he always took time to listen, and to understand, and then respond honestly and with straight talk. If you want something sugarcoated, look elsewhere. I always felt like he was my 'coach' as much as my physician. I just got through the worst six months of my life due in large part to Dr Harrod.

Anonymous

Dr Huff, Was great, I received A TKR in Oct 2016, It is now April 2017, No More Pain, Life Changing, I should have done it Sooner, His Team is TopKnotch...Thanx Dr Huff &Staff.....

Dana Callaway

Dr. Jason Harrod is a fantastic foot doctor! I had a bunionectomy and he told me honestly up front, what to expect. The surgical staff was top notch; I had a better experience there than in some area hospitals. I highly recommend this... Dr. Jason Harrod is a fantastic foot doctor! I had a bunionectomy and he told me honestly up front, what to expect. The surgical staff was top notch; I had a better experience there than in some area hospitals. I highly recommend this facility!

Elaine Laurila Haggard

Saw Dr. Vasicek shortly and was able to explain my concerns, we looked together at the X Rays , found no damage to the knee, on the left leg whose femur I had broken. Dr. Vasicek also explained why I had so much pain there and gave me a... Saw Dr. Vasicek shortly and was able to explain my concerns, we looked together at the X Rays , found no damage to the knee, on the left leg whose femur I had broken. Dr. Vasicek also explained why I had so much pain there and gave me a prescription to help me there.I am grateful that she took so much time to easy my anxiety .Her double Knee replacements 2 years ago have helped me to continue my travels and I was very afraid that I might have hurt the left knee. Best most caring Dr of all

Anonymous

Dr Balthrop was very informative on knee condition and options

Anonymous

Was in the room before my appointment time. He performed the exam and based on what was causing my pain, showed me on the model where my problem was. However an MRI is needed to confirm the diagnosis before heading to the OR. He’s... Was in the room before my appointment time. He performed the exam and based on what was causing my pain, showed me on the model where my problem was. However an MRI is needed to confirm the diagnosis before heading to the OR. He’s knowledgeable and very pleasant.

Lynn PB

I am so thankful I was referred to Dr. Donegan! He was professional in helping me make a decision regarding my surgery! His staff and the receptionists on The first floor were very helpful! I will still have to have surgery at a later... I am so thankful I was referred to Dr. Donegan! He was professional in helping me make a decision regarding my surgery! His staff and the receptionists on The first floor were very helpful! I will still have to have surgery at a later date, but we are trying all options before surgery as a last resort.

Pashia Staton

I would highly recommend Dr Christensen. He is kind and compassionate to his patients.

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