Undisplaced fracture of the radial head

Claire asked The Guru for the following Physiotherapy Advice:
Back in November I fractured my elbow (undisplaced fracture of the radial head). After being in a cast for two weeks, I am still trying, unsuccessfully, to straighten the arm. It’s probably only about 10 degrees loss of extension, but there nevertheless and still quite painful. I’m seeing an NHS physio who seems to be very good, but it’s a very slow process. I was wondering if there is a more aggressive form of treatment I should be seeking?
Thanks.

Hi Claire

….getting those last few degrees of extension can be a really slow, and sometimes never attainable.

Make sure you’ve got no neural tethering along the radial nerve.

Going for a more aggressive approach, especially trying to gain extension, generally leads to more pain and slower progress.

Good Luck