Elbow Hyperextension
The elbow joint is made of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone) and the radius and ulna (forearm bones). Elbow hyperextension occurs when the structures that connect these bones are pushed beyond their natural range of motion. Basically, your elbow gets bent too far in the wrong direction from a straightened position. A hyperextended elbow may cause ligament or tissue damage and may even temporarily inhibit full movement of the elbow.
Causes of Hyperextended Elbow
The elbow joint is made of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone) and the radius and ulna (forearm bones). Elbow hyperextension occurs when the structures that connect these bones are pushed beyond their natural range of motion. Basically, your elbow gets bent too far in the wrong direction from a straightened position. A hyperextended elbow may cause ligament or tissue damage and may even temporarily inhibit full movement of the elbow.
Elbow Hyperextension Symptoms
During injury, the patient may hear a "popping" sound. One of the symptoms of elbow hyperextension is pain when the arm is in a straightened position. Some patients also have persistent pain at the front of the elbow (the side that creases when the elbow is bent). In some cases, swelling may be present and the patient may also experience muscle spasms in the bicep when attempting to straighten the arm.
What is the Treatment?
As with any injury, your doctor will be the best source of advice on the appropriate treatment method for your situation. Immediate elbow hyperextension pain management often starts with applying ice or another cold therapy product to the elbow. (Check out the Aircast Elbow Cryo/Cuff with Cooler) Over the counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin may also help reduce inflammation and pain.
Your doctor will usually recommend that you rest your elbow for several days to allow it time to heal. In some cases you may be required to use am arm sling to help immobilize the area. Elbow braces and supports can also help provide added stabilization while you heal. Not only are they great after an elbow injury, but elbow braces can be used for injury prevention as well.
Luckily, hyperextended elbows typically heal after a few weeks to a month. In some cases, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to continue rehabilitation of the elbow. In very rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments that cannot heal on their own.
Braces to Support Elbow Hyperextension
Braces for Elbow Hyperextension
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Special Price $9.99 Regular Price $11.99On Sale 17% Off Save $2.00Secure your arm comfortably with the DonJoy Advantage Arm Sling for optimal support. Adjustable design ensures a perfect fit to aid recovery from fractures and injuries. Lightweight and durable—promote healing while staying active and pain-free.
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$113.99On Sale 0% Off Save $0.00(8) ReviewsThe Aircast Arm Immobilizer offers secure and comfortable support for shoulder, elbow, and wrist injuries. Its innovative tri-strap design ensures a customized fit, while the breathable mesh fabric enhances comfort during daily wear. Available with or without an abduction pillow, it aids in healing by positioning the arm at a 15° angle, making it ideal for post-operative recovery and injury management.
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On Sale 0% Off Save $0.00(23) ReviewsUnlock powerful support with the DonJoy Performance Bionic Elbow Brace for ultimate injury protection. Advanced stabilization technology relieves pain and prevents strains during intense activity. Built for athletes and rehab—boost recovery and performance with unmatched comfort and durability.