Why can't I straighten my arm?
When you find you can’t physically move your elbow to straighten out your arm, you should have it assessed by a doctor. Ignoring the issue could cause permanent damage.
There are a few different reasons why you may not be able to straighten your arm. Some of the most common are:
- Dislocated or hyperextended elbow joint.
- Fracture in the bones around the elbow.
- Severe inflammation of the tendons around the elbow.
- Swelling near ulnar nerve.
The above can happen when significant trauma affects the elbow or repeated strain on the joint.
When there is significant pain, a marked increase of symptoms or distinct discolouration or swelling of the affected area, seeking immediate medical support is crucial. However, in many cases, the symptoms can be managed, and you can support the joint through recovery while minimising the risk of re-injury.
Recovery for an elbow injury
No matter what type of injury has occurred to the elbow joint, following the RICE principle helps with immediate and long-term recovery.
- Rest: Resting the elbow is one of the most effective ways to help the tendons in the joint recover. Avoid using the arm, especially when it comes to carrying or lifting heavy items.
- Ice: Whenever there is trauma that affects the elbow, icing it to manage swelling and pain is a great technique. 20 minutes on 20 minutes off is a great rule of thumb here.
- Compress: Using a bandage or compressive support to provide stability to the elbow muscles helps to speed up the recovery of the muscles and increase the healing of any wounds.
- Elevate: Keeping the joint elevated helps prevent excessive swelling of the area. Using a sling during the day and a pillow at night helps to keep the recovery of the joint consistent.
Managing elbow pain
Whether you have recovered from injury and your elbow is moving normally, or it is tight and not moving at full capacity, it's likely you'll feel apprehensive about re-injury. The following simple steps can assist in reducing the risk of injury while still allowing you to participate in (some) exercises and sport.
Elbow braces and supports
Wearing a compressive support while playing sports, engaging in physical activity, or doing tasks around the house is a great way to ensure the tendons, muscles and bones in your elbow are supported and stabilised. This will minimise the risk of re-injury and allow you to get on with the game.
EpiTrain Elbow Brace
For our full range of elbow supports: Elbow Braces.
Stretching and Strengthening
Targeted stretches keep the muscles limber and provide greater flexibility to the joint. Focusing on strengthening exercises at home, the gym or with a physiotherapist is a great way to help give your elbow the best support it can get.
