The bones of the elbow (humerus, radius and ulna) can break (fracture) in or adjacent to the elbow joint.

You can injure your elbow in a variety of ways, from overuse to an acute traumatic event. Some common events that result in elbow fractures are:

• Falling backward and trying to catch yourself
• High-energy trauma, as may occur in an automobile or motorcycle collision
• A direct blow or fall onto the elbow
• A direct injury to the wrist, hand, or shoulder can also affect the elbow

If your elbow shows any of the following signs, you may have a fracture or another injury that needs medical attention.

• Swelling of your elbow or in the area immediately above or below your elbow
• Deformity of your elbow, or the areas near your elbow
• Discoloration, such as bruising or redness of your elbow
• Difficulty moving your elbow through its complete range of motion
• Numbness, decreased sensation, or a cool sensation of your forearm, hand, or fingers
• Severe pain after an elbow injury
• A “tight sensation” in the area of your elbow or forearm

Treatment of a broken elbow depends on the type of injury that you have suffered. It may include:

• Elevating and applying ice to any swollen areas
• Medications
• Splints, slings or casts
• Surgery to repair bones, nerves, and/or blood vessels