Radial Head Fracture

What are the signs and symptoms of the injury?

The human forearm has 2 long bones, the radius and the ulnar. These bones allow the elbow and wrist to move. When a person falls on an outstretched arm, the force travels along the radius from the wrist to the elbow. At the elbow, the end of the radius or radial head may break.

Common symptoms include pain and stiffness in the elbow. In addition, joint swelling, limited motion, and tenderness may occur. This is worsened when the arm is straightened or rotated palm-side up. Tenderness over the outside of the elbow, below the joint over the radial head, may occur. Movement may cause a clicking sensation or pain.