Rehabilitation Including Manual Therapy Management Following Complicated Immobilized Radial Head Fracture and Elbow Stiffness: A Case Report

Abstract

Radial head fractures are one of the most common fractures of the elbow and typically occur after a fall on an outstretched arm. When the fracture is displaced, unfavorable outcomes can occur and lead to early arthritis. Additionally, elbow pain and stiffness due to immobilization or surgical reduction and stabilization typically ensues and can limit one’s overall upper extremity function. Rehabilitation following such a fracture can be challenging and the inclusion of manual therapy in the management process has not been described to date in the literature. Therefore, the aim of this case report is to present the evaluation and treatment of a 40-year-old female following a complicated radial head fracture. The rehabilitation conducted over a four-month course is discussed and the benefits of joint specific manual therapy in the rehabilitation are highlighted.