Elbow Injuries: Check Your Symptoms

Content provided by Healthwise

When to See a Doctor

Are you unable to move your elbow normally?

See significance of inability to move elbow normally if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Is your elbow locked in one position and you are unable to straighten or bend it?

Yes

Do you have decreased elbow movement and severe pain?

Yes

After having a brace, cast, or splint applied, are you unable to move your arm normally (not because the splint is in the way)? Note: See first aid for a cast or splint that may be too tight.

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Is a young child unable or unwilling to use his or her arm?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Are you unable to move your elbow normally after 48 hours of home treatment?

Yes

Do you have decreased elbow strength after 48 hours of home treatment?

You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Does your elbow lock up from time to time, but it is not locked up now?

Yes

Has your elbow felt loose or unstable off and on for a long time, and your symptoms have not been evaluated by a health professional?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	April 03, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer