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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Swelling In Hand And Fingers Post An Elbow Injury?

Hello. I week ago I fell and hit my right elbow on the concrete. Iwent to the ER where xray showed no break, but I did need stitches. The wound is healing nicely, but all week I have had swelling in my arm that has now reached my hand. The swelling is now only in my hand and fingers, not my arm. Should I be concerned?
Tue, 27 Sep 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello! Sorry to hear that.

Any injury to the soft tissue or involving a fracture can result in swelling or edema as an inflammatory reaction. This may result in redness, swelling, pain, local rise in temperature and restriction of movements due to the swelling, etc. Good to know that you did not have any fracture in the x-ray. Since there was a need for sutures, this could have resulted in edema. This usually subsides within 7 to 10 days. A course of antibiotics may sometimes be given post injury and after suturing the wound. OTC pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help reduce the swelling. If you notice the pain, sqelling and redness to increase or spread, please report to your treating doctor immediately. Avoid lifting heavy weights or any strain on that hand. Hope you feel better soon.
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What Causes Swelling In Hand And Fingers Post An Elbow Injury?

Hello! Sorry to hear that. Any injury to the soft tissue or involving a fracture can result in swelling or edema as an inflammatory reaction. This may result in redness, swelling, pain, local rise in temperature and restriction of movements due to the swelling, etc. Good to know that you did not have any fracture in the x-ray. Since there was a need for sutures, this could have resulted in edema. This usually subsides within 7 to 10 days. A course of antibiotics may sometimes be given post injury and after suturing the wound. OTC pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help reduce the swelling. If you notice the pain, sqelling and redness to increase or spread, please report to your treating doctor immediately. Avoid lifting heavy weights or any strain on that hand. Hope you feel better soon.