Elbow Injuries: Elbow Sprain Symptoms and Treatment (continued)

What types of elbow injuries are there?

Elbow sprains are of three types;

1. A mild or (grade I) strain, which is tearing of some ligament fibers There is no loss of function.
2. A moderate or (grade II) sprain, which is rupture of a portion of the ligament, resulting in some loss of function.
3. A severe or (grade III sprain), which is a complete rupture of the ligament or complete separation of the ligament from the bone. There is total loss of function. A severe sprain may require surgical repair, especially in a throwing athlete.

What musculature is involved in a elbow sprain?

The specific body parts involved are the ligaments of the elbow joint and also soft tissues surrounding the sprain, including nerves, periosteum (covering of bone), blood vessels and muscle.

How do I know if I've sprained my elbow?

The signs and symptoms of a elbow sprain are:

1. Severe pain at the time of injury
2. A feeling of popping or tearing inside the elbow
3. Tenderness at the injury site
4. Swelling around the elbow
5. Bruising that appears soon after the injury.

Continued