Elbow Pain with Mobility Deficits
Often, after traumatic injury (e.g. fracture) or immobilization, the joints of the elbow along with the joint capsule can become stiff resulting in pain and decreased range of motion!
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Anatomy
Image via Complete Anatomy 2018 by 3D4 Medical
Key Finding
If a patient presents to clinic with elbow pain and decreased range of motion, check for history of trauma/immobilization! (Click image to watch 1-2 minute video)
Mobility Assessment
Post immobilization, elbow extension tends to be the most limited. Although the ulnohumeral joint is responsible for the majority of elbow extension, it is imperative to assess the radiohumeral and proximal radioulnar joint as well! (Click image to watch 1-2 minute video)
Treatment
Ulnohumeral distraction mobilization can help improve both flexion and extension range of motion! (Click image to watch 1-2 minute video)
Therapeutic Exercise
Once you have improved joint mobility it is important to follow up with movement in the new found range of motion! (Click image to watch 1-2 minute video)