Let it heal without surgery

Your body can heal a fracture of the radial head. It’s important to move and stretch so the elbow doesn’t get stiff.^{6, 7} You can use a sling for comfort for a few days. There is no need for a cast or a splint. Acetaminophen and/or aspirin-type medications such as ibuprofen can relieve the pain.

Activities with limited weight or risk of falling can be resumed immediately. Full activity is safe 3 months after injury. The stiffness and soreness will improve for 6 to 12 months.

Only 2 out of a 100 people need later surgery because the fracture isn’t healing correctly.^{5, 8}

Advantages:

• No surgery or surgery-related risks

Disadvantages:

• You might not be able to turn your forearm as much if the fracture is in the way. This is very uncommon.
• You might feel a crackle or snap when you turn your forearm.