Elbow injury

There are numerous ligaments, tendons and muscles surrounding the elbow joint. Injury can happen to any of these because of direct trauma. Hitting your elbow on something or jarring it. Jarring is where elbow bends or straightens in a direction it shouldn’t.

After 48-72 hours

By this point your elbow may feel slightly better and it is important to start moving the joint now. Doing some gentle movements such as bending and straightening the joint and turning your hand to face downwards and upwards can help.

Help with pain management

Simple painkillers can be used after injury, most of which can be bought over the counter in shops, supermarkets or pharmacy’s. Examples are:

• Paracetamol
• Ibuprofen

You may have been prescribed an alternative painkiller, please refer to specific advice for that tablet if this is the case.

Recovery after an elbow injury

Most injuries take 2-3 weeks to recover but can sometimes take up to 6 weeks to be completely comfortable.

You may have been given a follow-up appointment with an elbow specialist or physiotherapist. It is important that you keep your appointment to make sure your elbow fully recovers.

Further advice

If you have any ongoing concerns or queries about your elbow injury you should contact NHS 111 or your local GP.

If your concern is an emergency, attend your local Emergency Department.