Question 1

What is the radial head and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

The radial head is the knobby top end of the radius bone (one of two forearm bones) where it meets the elbow. It's shaped like a disc or shallow cup and articulates with both the humerus (upper arm bone) and the ulna (other forearm bone). The radial head is crucial for two functions: (1) it helps with elbow bending and straightening, and (2) more importantly, it's essential for rotating your forearm (turning your palm up and down). It also acts as a stabilizer, preventing the radius from migrating upward under load. When fractured, forearm rotation is usually the most affected movement. That's why these fractures can be so disabling even though they might seem like small injuries.

Question 2

How do I know if I need surgery or not?

Accepted Answer

The decision depends on fracture displacement and whether your elbow can move. Mason Type I fractures (hairline cracks with no displacement) virtually never need surgery. Type II fractures (displaced fragments) are treated non-surgically if the elbow can bend, straighten, and rotate reasonably well - if there's a mechanical block preventing motion, surgery is usually needed. Type III fractures (shattered into multiple pieces) often need radial head replacement. Type IV fractures (with elbow dislocation) usually need surgery to restore stability. Your surgeon will assess your X-rays and examine how well your elbow moves. If you can achieve at least 100 degrees of flexion and reasonable forearm rotation (even if painful), non-surgical treatment is often successful.

Question 3

Will my elbow ever be completely normal again?

Accepted Answer

Probably not quite 100%, but most people regain very functional elbows. It's common to lose 5-15 degrees of terminal elbow extension (full straightening) and 10-20 degrees of forearm rotation. This rarely affects daily activities - you can still eat, dress, work, and play sports. However, activities requiring extreme elbow extension or forceful rotation might be affected. About 10-20% of people develop mild post-traumatic arthritis over years, which may cause occasional aching. The key to maximizing recovery is diligent physiotherapy in the first 3-6 months. People who work hard on their exercises regain more motion than those who don't.

Question 4

Why is physiotherapy so important for this injury?

Accepted Answer

The elbow is notorious for becoming stiff after injury or surgery. The joint capsule and ligaments contract quickly, and scar tissue forms that limits motion. Starting gentle exercises early (even within days of injury or surgery) prevents severe stiffness. Studies show that people who start early motion exercises regain significantly more elbow function than those who immobilize for extended periods. Your physiotherapist will guide the balance between moving enough to prevent stiffness but not so aggressively that you displace the fracture or cause excessive pain. Most people see continued improvement in motion for 6-12 months if they persist with exercises. Skipping physiotherapy often results in permanent stiffness.

Question 5

What are the long-term problems I might face?

Accepted Answer

The most common long-term issue is some residual stiffness (loss of 5-15 degrees extension, 10-20 degrees rotation). About 10-20% develop post-traumatic arthritis in the elbow or radiohumeral joint over 5-10+ years, causing occasional aching or stiffness. If you had surgery with plates/screws, 20-30% of people need hardware removed later due to irritation. If you had a radial head replacement, there's a 10-15% chance of needing revision surgery within 10 years due to loosening, wear, or pain. Despite these potential issues, most people (70-85%) are satisfied with their outcomes and can return to near-normal activities. The key is realistic expectations and compliance with rehabilitation.

Medical Disclaimer

Radial Head Fracture (Elbow Fracture)

📖What is Radial Head Fracture (Elbow Fracture)?

🔬What Causes It?

⚠️Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if:

🛡️Prevention