When an elbow is dislocated, delicate measures are needed to restore it to its original position and normal functionality. Such measures usually require multiple phases of rehabilitation to effectively build strength and restore proper range of motion. This guide will go over the stages of rehab for elbow dislocation to encourage proper care. For elbow rehab services near you, schedule a consultation with Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay.
Phase I: Weeks 0–4 — Protect, Control Pain, and Begin Gentle Motion
Goals:
- Reduce swelling and pain
- Start gentle movement to prevent stiffness
- Protect healing tissues
- Maintain overall fitness
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Rest, Ice, and Elevate: Keep your arm elevated and apply ice packs to control swelling and pain.
- Gentle Movements: Your provider may guide you through passive range of motion (PROM) exercises, especially focusing on gently straightening your elbow.
- Splinting or Bracing: If needed, a brace will support your joint and prevent overuse.
- Keep the Blood Flowing: While your elbow heals, stay active with light cardiovascular exercise (like walking or stationary biking) and gentle movements for the rest of your body.
- Strength Through Motion: Begin light exercises that move the elbow without resistance, helping you build strength gradually.
- Soft Tissue Work: If you’re stiff or sore, your provider might perform soft tissue massage — especially around the brachialis muscle, which can get tight after injury.
- Stay in Touch With Your Body: Watch for signs of nerve or circulation problems, like tingling, numbness, or color changes in the hand.
Phase II: Weeks 5–8 — Regain Motion and Start Building Strength
Goals:
- Restore full elbow motion
- Control any lingering pain or swelling
- Start light strength work
- Keep your body in shape
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Active Exercises: You’ll start active range of motion (AROM) and isometric exercises (tightening muscles without movement), gradually moving to resisted exercises using bands or light weights.
- Stretch and Mobilize: If your joint is stiff, your therapist may use joint mobilizations, massage, or passive stretches to loosen it up.
- Sport or Job-Specific Movements: If you’re an athlete or manual worker, you’ll begin to reintroduce movements that match your daily tasks or sports.
- Nerve Mobility: If nerve symptoms linger, gentle nerve gliding exercises may be added.
- Stay Strong: Continue your general fitness program and adjust it as needed to match your progress.
Phase III: Weeks 9–16 — Strengthen and Return to Normal Activity
Goals:
- Achieve full elbow range of motion
- Regain normal strength
- Return to your regular work, hobbies, or sports
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Progressive Strength Training: You’ll keep building muscle strength using resistance bands, weights, and bodyweight exercises.
- Fine-Tuning Movements: Continue any necessary joint or soft tissue work and increase the complexity of sport or job-specific movements.
- Total Body Fitness: Your cardio and strength training routines will become more challenging as you return to your normal activity level.
- Ready to Return: The goal by the end of this phase is to confidently return to your pre-injury life — whether that’s playing tennis, lifting boxes, or typing at a desk.
We Offer Elbow Rehabilitation at Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay
Dislocated an elbow? Call Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay immediately to schedule an appointment so we can get started on personalized treatment and rehabilitation. Our team is trusted in the community for comprehensive elbow treatment in the area.
