Abstract
Radial head fractures are one of the most common fractures of the elbow and typically occur after a fall on an outstretched arm. When the fracture is displaced, unfavorable outcomes can occur and lead to early arthritis. Additionally, elbow pain and stiffness due to immobilization or surgical reduction and stabilization typically ensues and can limit one’s overall upper extremity function. Rehabilitation following such a fracture can be challenging and the inclusion of manual therapy in the management process has not been described to date in the literature. Therefore, the aim of this case report is to present the evaluation and treatment of a 40-year-old female following a complicated radial head fracture. The rehabilitation conducted over a four-month course is discussed and the benefits of joint specific manual therapy in the rehabilitation are highlighted.
Highlights
Radial head fractures are one of the most common fractures of the elbow [1]-[4] and typically occur after a fall on an outstretched arm [5]
The literature establishing the role and benefit of joint specific treatment is lacking [1]-[3] [6] [7] [15]. This case report presents the examination findings of a post-traumatic malunion radial head fracture with subsequent open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), the interpretation of the examination findings, interventions used during the rehabilitation process, and the outcomes of treatment
This case report highlights the addition of joint specific manual intervention to the patient management to restore mobility and full elbow extension without the prolonged use of dynamic splinting in a patient with complicated radial head fracture
Summary
Radial head fractures are one of the most common fractures of the elbow [1]-[4] and typically occur after a fall on an outstretched arm [5]. The literature establishing the role and benefit of joint specific treatment is lacking [1]-[3] [6] [7] [15] This case report presents the examination findings of a post-traumatic malunion radial head fracture with subsequent open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), the interpretation of the examination findings, interventions used during the rehabilitation process, and the outcomes of treatment. This case report highlights the addition of joint specific manual intervention to the patient management to restore mobility and full elbow extension without the prolonged use of dynamic splinting in a patient with complicated radial head fracture
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