Radial Head Ligament Sprain: Expert Care and Rehabilitation at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

What is a Radial Head Ligament Sprain?

The radial head is the top part of the radius bone that forms part of the elbow joint. Ligaments that surround the radial head, including the annular ligament, help stabilize the joint and ensure proper rotation of the forearm. A radial head ligament sprain occurs when one or more of these ligaments is overstretched, partially torn, or completely ruptured. This injury can affect your ability to move the elbow freely, and if left untreated, it may lead to long-term instability or dysfunction.

Causes of Radial Head Ligament Sprains

• Trauma: A sudden force, such as a fall onto an outstretched hand, direct impact, or a collision, can result in a sprain of the radial head ligaments.

• Repetitive Stress: Activities that involve repetitive rotation of the forearm or forceful pushing motions may contribute to overuse of the radial head ligaments.

• Hyperextension: Overextending the arm or twisting the elbow beyond its normal range of motion can damage the ligaments surrounding the radial head.

• Chronic Conditions: Underlying joint issues such as arthritis or previous elbow injuries may increase the risk of developing a radial head ligament sprain.

Symptoms of Radial Head Ligament Sprain

• Pain on the Outside of the Elbow: The most common symptom of a radial head ligament sprain is pain on the lateral (outer) side of the elbow, which can worsen with movement.

• Swelling: Swelling may occur around the elbow, particularly on the outside where the radial head is located.

• Instability: A feeling of weakness or instability when rotating the forearm or bearing weight on the arm.

• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty fully extending or rotating the arm, especially when using it to lift or push objects.

• Pain with Certain Movements: Activities like gripping, lifting, or rotation (e.g., turning a doorknob or throwing) may exacerbate the pain and discomfort.

Diagnosis of Radial Head Ligament Sprain

To accurately diagnose a radial head ligament sprain, a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies is required:

1. Clinical Examination:

   • The physiotherapist will assess the elbow for tenderness, pain, and swelling, specifically around the radial head area. Special tests will be performed to assess the stability of the ligaments and joint.

2. Imaging Tests:

   • X-rays: These will rule out any bone fractures or dislocations around the elbow.

   • MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging can provide detailed images of soft tissues, including ligaments, and is particularly useful for detecting ligament tears or sprains.

   • Ultrasound: Ultrasound imaging can also be used to evaluate soft tissue injuries, particularly ligament damage, in real-time.

Treatment Options for Radial Head Ligament Sprains

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

Most radial head ligament sprains can be effectively managed with conservative, non-surgical treatments:

• Rest:

  • Avoid activities that stress the elbow joint, such as lifting, twisting, or overhead movements, to allow the ligaments time to heal.

• Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation:

  • Strengthening Exercises: Gradual strengthening of the forearm, upper arm, and shoulder muscles to reduce the load on the elbow joint.

  • Stretching & Flexibility: Exercises designed to improve range of motion and flexibility in the elbow and forearm.

  • Manual Therapy: Techniques like joint mobilization can be used to reduce stiffness, alleviate pain, and improve mobility in the elbow joint.

  • Proprioception: Exercises aimed at restoring joint stability and improving awareness of elbow position.

• Pain Management:

  • NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can help reduce swelling and manage pain.

  • Ice Therapy: Ice packs can be applied to the injured area to control swelling and inflammation in the initial stages of injury.

  • Corticosteroid Injections: If pain and inflammation persist, corticosteroid injections may be considered to help with pain relief and inflammation control.

• Bracing or Splinting:

  • In some cases, a brace or splint may be used to immobilize the elbow joint and prevent further strain on the injured ligament during the healing process.

Surgical Treatment

In cases where the radial head ligament sprain is severe or does not respond to conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be required:

• Ligament Repair or Reconstruction:

  • If the ligament is torn, a surgeon may repair or reconstruct the ligament to restore the stability of the elbow. This is typically done through minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, followed by rehabilitation.

• Post-Surgery Rehabilitation:

  • A tailored rehabilitation plan will be essential to regain full strength and range of motion, and to ensure the elbow returns to normal function following surgery.

Rehabilitation and Recovery at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

Our physiotherapists specialize in the rehabilitation of radial head ligament sprains, and we provide a structured program to help you regain full function of your elbow:

• Acute Phase:

  • Focus on pain reduction, controlling inflammation, and protecting the injured ligaments. Techniques such as ice therapy and rest will be employed.

• Strengthening Phase:

  • Gradual introduction of strengthening exercises to rebuild muscle strength around the elbow and forearm, providing better support for the joint.

• Mobility and Flexibility:

  • Exercises to restore full range of motion and improve joint mobility.

• Return-to-Activity Plan:

  • For athletes or individuals who require heavy use of their elbow, we will implement a functional rehabilitation plan to ensure a safe return to sports or work activities.

Preventing Radial Head Ligament Sprains

While some injuries are unavoidable, you can reduce the risk of radial head ligament sprains by:

• Proper Technique:

  • Ensuring correct form when engaging in activities that involve elbow rotation or pushing/pulling motions.

• Strength Training:

  • A strong forearm, upper arm, and shoulder musculature can support and stabilize the elbow joint, preventing excessive strain on the ligaments.

• Rest & Recovery:

  • Avoid overuse by giving the elbow adequate rest, especially if you perform repetitive motions that put stress on the joint.

• Warm-Up and Stretching:

  • Perform a thorough warm-up routine and gentle stretches before activities, particularly if they involve significant elbow movement.

Why Choose Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health?

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, our goal is to provide you with personalized, effective treatment for your radial head ligament sprain. Whether through hands-on physiotherapy, tailored rehabilitation programs, or post-surgical care, we are committed to helping you regain strength and return to your activities safely.

Contact Us Today

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a radial head ligament sprain or need rehabilitation after an injury, contact us at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health. Our team will design a treatment plan suited to your needs and ensure a speedy and effective recovery.