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First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
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Broken Elbow Treatment

1. Reduce Swelling

  • Apply ice.
  • If bone is pushing through skin, do not touch it or try to put it back in place.

 

2. Immobilize the Elbow

For less serious injuries:

  • Cut away the sleeve if it cannot be removed without moving the injured elbow.
  • If you can without moving the elbow, tie splints on with fabric or elastic bandages above and below the elbow.
  • Cardboard, rolled-up newspaper, or other stiff material can be used as splints.
  • Put padding between the splints and the bony parts of the arm.
  • Make a sling and place the person's arm in it. Tie the sling around the person's neck.

 

3. See a Health Care Provider Immediately

4. Follow Up

  • The health care provider will likely take X-rays and check for feeling and range of motion to determine whether there has been nerve or tendon damage.
  • The health care provider may apply a splint or cast.
  • Surgery may be needed for more complicated fractures.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

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Reviewed by Varnada Karriem-Norwood, MD on November 10, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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