Radial Neck Fracture (Elbow)

Description

This is a break of the radius near the elbow, at the “neck” just below the radial head — the part that spins as the forearm rotates the palm up and down. It usually follows a fall onto an outstretched arm.

How it happens (the mechanism)

A fall with the elbow forced outward (valgus) drives the radial head against the neighboring bump of the upper arm bone (the capitellum), tilting the radial neck. The radial neck tolerates and remodels a fair amount of tilt, so many of these do not need to be perfectly straightened — what is protected most is the elbow’s motion.

Symptoms

Pain and tenderness on the outer elbow, swelling, and difficulty bending the elbow or turning the palm up and down.

Doctor examination and imaging

The doctor checks elbow and forearm motion; X-rays show the fracture and its angle.

Treatment

A fracture with acceptable alignment is treated with a sling or cast for comfort, followed by early motion to keep the elbow supple. A very angled fracture may be gently realigned, occasionally with a procedure.

Recovery and long-term outlook

Most heal well. Stiffness, rather than the break itself, is the usual thing to avoid, so motion is restored gradually but not delayed too long.

When to call the doctor

Call the office right away if your child’s fingers become numb, pale, blue, or cold; pain keeps worsening even after raising the arm and giving medicine; swelling does not improve with elevation; the cast feels too tight, cracked, or wet, or smells bad; or your child develops a fever.

Learn more

OrthoInfo (AAOS) — Elbow Fractures in Children: orthoinfo.aaos.org

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For specific concerns about your child, consult a board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric orthopaedic surgeon.