Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.
An xray of the injured part is necessary to rule out any bony
injury (
fracture) that might be causing limitation of your movement (difficulty in straightening the arm).
The initial management of your condition is as follows -
- Protect the injured area from further injury by using a support or splint
- Rest the injured joint . Avoid activity for the first 48 to 72 hours.
- Ice packing the painful area for the first 48 to 72 hours after the injury. Apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the day
- Use an elastic compression bandage around the injured area to limit any swelling and movement that could damage it further. It should be wrapped snugly around the affected area but not so tightly that it restricts blood flow.
- Keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce swelling.
- Take
ibuprofen (
Advil,
Motrin) or
acetaminophen (
Tylenol) to help relieve pain
- Gentle massaging of the painful area with a pain killer cream will help
If your symptoms are not resolving with the above measures, consult an orthopedic surgeon for further management.
Hope this information is helpful. Good day