What should be considered when exercising after a fractured elbow?
Disease description:
My elbow is fractured and currently in the recovery phase. There is still some swelling and pain in the arm, and movement is somewhat limited. I would like to know what precautions should be taken regarding exercises after an elbow fracture?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Exercising after a elbow fracture is an important part of the recovery process. Listed below are several key points to keep in mind:
1. Timing of exercise: Before beginning any exercise, ensure that the fracture has stabilized to avoid premature movement which may cause displacement or delayed healing.
2. Methods of exercise: While external fixation is in place, you may perform finger flexion and extension exercises, wrist flexion and extension exercises, and shoulder joint flexion, extension, adduction, and abduction exercises to maintain blood circulation and reduce muscle atrophy. After removal of the external fixation, begin elbow flexion and extension exercises and forearm rotation exercises as early as possible.
3. Exercise intensity: Initially, exercise should be low intensity, gradually increasing as recovery progresses. Functional training may include resistance elbow flexion and extension using elastic bands or Flexi-bar assisted exercises. During the middle stage of recovery, light resistance exercises such as forearm rotations using light dumbbells can be introduced to strengthen muscles. All exercises should be performed within a pain-free range.
4. Precautions: Avoid excessive force during exercise to prevent secondary injury to the fracture site.
