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! 

• If you do not know the common clinical findings no problem! Click here

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)