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Elbow Radial Head Fracture: Rehab Exercises

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Introduction

Here are some examples of exercises for you to try. The exercises may be suggested for a condition or for rehabilitation. Start each exercise slowly. Ease off the exercises if you start to have pain.

You will be told when to start these exercises and which ones will work best for you.

How to do the exercises

Elbow extensor stretch

slide 1 of 3
slide 1 of 3, Elbow extensor stretch,
  1. Lift your affected arm, and bend the elbow. Your palm should face toward you.
  2. With your other hand, gently push on the back of your affected forearm. Press your hand toward your shoulder until you feel a stretch in the back of your upper arm.
  3. Hold for at least 15 to 30 seconds.
  4. Repeat 2 to 4 times.
  5. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other arm.

Hand flip

slide 2 of 3
slide 2 of 3, Hand flip,
  1. Sit leaning forward with your legs slightly spread. Then place your affected forearm on your thigh with your palm down.
  2. Flip your hand over so the back of your hand rests on your thigh and your palm is up. Alternate between palm up and palm down while keeping your forearm on your thigh.
  3. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
  4. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other arm.

Forearm pronation and supination stretch

slide 3 of 3
slide 3 of 3, Forearm pronation and supination stretch,
  1. Keep your affected elbow at your side, bent at about 90 degrees. Grasp a thin object, like a pen, pencil, or stick, and wrap your hand around it. If you don't have something to hold on to, make a fist instead.
  2. Slowly turn your forearm as far as you can back and forth in each direction. Your hand should face up and then down.
  3. Hold each position for at least 15 to 30 seconds until you feel a stretch in your forearm.
  4. Repeat 2 to 4 times.
  5. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other arm.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.