Hyperextension Injury of the Elbow

Elbow Hyperextension Injury Specialist

People involved in tennis, football, weight-lifting and contact sports are at a higher risk of hyperextension injury when the elbow is bent beyond its normal range of motion, causing damage to the bones and ligaments and even dislocation. Elbow hyperextension injury specialist, Dr. Kelechi Okoroha provides diagnosis and individualized non-surgical and surgical management for the condition in Minneapolis. Contact Dr. Okoroha’s team for an appointment today!

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What is Hyperextension Injury of the Elbow?

Hyperextension injury of the elbow occurs when the elbow joint is bent beyond its normal range of motion, causing damage to the bones and ligaments of the elbow. It may also cause elbow dislocation. The condition is more common in tennis, football, weight-lifting and contact sports.

When a hyperextension injury of the elbow is suspected, it is important to schedule an orthopedic consultation for proper examination and care. Dr. Kelechi Okoroha is a elbow hyperextension injury specialist who provides detailed examination and care for patients with elbow hyperextension injury in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Minnesota and beyond.

Symptoms

Patients with a hyperextension injury of the elbow often experience a popping sound, followed by instant pain. Other symptoms include:

• Pain when moving or touching your elbow
• Swelling or stiffness in the injured elbow
• Loss of arm and elbow strength
• Muscle spasms in the biceps

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of hyperextension injury of the elbow is based on review of your medical history and a thorough physical examination performed by Dr. Okoroha. He may also order X-rays to rule out any fractures. Additionally, MRI and CT scans will help detect any soft tissue damage.

Treatments

After careful review of your history and examination, Dr. Okoroha will provide an individualized treatment plan to help you return to your normal function.

Dr. Okoroha will first recommend conservative treatment options. These may include:

• Limit use and rest the elbow from activities that worsen symptoms.
• Braces may be ordered to decrease stress on the injured tissues.
• Ice packs applied to the elbow can reduce swelling.
• Anti-inflammatory medications may be ordered to treat swelling and discomfort.
• Physical therapy may be ordered to promote stretching and strengthening, once symptoms have decreased.

If conservative treatment options fail to resolve the condition or your elbow is severely fractured or torn, Dr. Okoroha may recommend surgery. Following surgery, you are referred to physical therapy to improve the range of motion and strength of your joint.