Elbow Fractures in Children

Children’s Elbow Fracture Specialist

Elbow fractures in children is usually caused by a fall on an outstretched arm or a hurried physical activity. The break in any of the bones that form the elbow can lead to severe pain in the joint and numbness in the hand. Elbow fracture specialist, Dr. Kelechi Okoroha provides diagnosis and individualized non-surgical and surgical management for elbow fractures in children in Minneapolis. Contact Dr. Okoroha’s team for an appointment today!

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Elbow Anatomy in Children

The arm in the human body is made up of three bones that join to form a hinge joint called the elbow. The upper arm bone or humerus connects from the shoulder to the elbow to form the top of the hinge joint. The lower arm or forearm consists of two bones, the radius, and the ulna. These bones connect the wrist to the elbow forming the bottom portion of the hinge joint.

Children’s bones have an area of developing cartilage tissue called a growth plate present at the end of long bones that will eventually develop into solid bone as the child grows.

What is an Elbow Fracture?

A break in any of the bones that form the elbow is called an elbow fracture.

Causes of Elbow Fractures in Children

Fractures are more common in children due to their physical activities as well as their bone properties. An elbow fracture most commonly occurs when your child falls on an outstretched arm.

When an elbow fracture is suspected in your child, it is important to schedule an orthopedic consultation for proper examination and care. Dr. Kelechi Okoroha is a elbow fracture specialist who provides detailed examination and care for children with elbow fractures in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Minnesota and beyond.

Symptoms of Elbow Fractures

It can lead to severe pain in the elbow and numbness in the hand.

How are Elbow Fractures in Children Evaluated?

Dr. Okoroha first evaluates your child’s arm for signs of damage to blood vessels and nerves. An X-ray examination is then ordered to confirm and determine the severity of the fracture.

After careful review of your child’s history and examination, Dr. Okoroha will provide an individualized treatment plan to help your child return to normal function. Treatment of your child’s elbow fractures depends on the degree of displacement and type of fracture.

Non-surgical Treatment for Elbow Fractures in Children

If there is little or no displacement from the normal position, non-surgical treatment is recommended. Dr. Okoroha may immobilize the arm using a cast for 3 to 5 weeks. Regular X-rays are ordered to check if the bones are properly aligned.

Surgical Treatment for Elbow Fractures in Children

Surgery may be recommended if the fracture has caused the bones to move out of alignment. Dr. Okoroha brings the bones in correct alignment and may use metal pins, screws and wires to hold the bones in place. Your child must wear a cast for a few weeks. Exercises to improve the range of motion will be instructed after a month of healing.