Radial Head fracture?

Question

I fell and got a bilateral radial head fracture (I broke both my elbows) Is it okay to take off my sling if it feels better, and how long will this take to heal. I don't see a doctor until Monday, and I'd like to have some idea.

Answer 1

Not really. The MD's treated you with the slings for a reason...you know, if you were wearing a cast you couldn't "take it off because it felt better". I'm so sorry that happened to you...both elbows! What a rotten piece of luck! Do yourself a favor and "sweat out" the hard times, work towards having both arms good and useful in the future. Both elbows.....YOW!

Answer 2

Leave the slings on for now. The most important feature of the fractures is where they occurred on the radial head. From the sound of it they did not occur on the articulating surface, which is important for the health of the joint. If you suffered the fractures within the last two days they might be waiting for the immediate post-traumatic swelling to decrease before deciding what course to take. If the fractures were more than "simple" non-complicated ones they would have gone to greater lengths to immobilize your elbows than placing you in a sling.

Answer 3

You should keep your arm in the sling until you get the ok from your doctor. You can risk reinjury, or having the fracture slip and then pins have to be used to secure the fracture. 6 weeks are the average length for a fracture to heal.

Answer 4

My dear friend, don't take the slings off!!!, I know its a pain to be with both of your arms on slings but that only can get worst, and you could need to be another period with slings if you do that!! so be strong and keep your arms on slings... are you casted???

Best wishes

Answer 5

don't take your sling off until your dr says to!