• Reference Number: HEY-481A/2020
• Departments: Orthopaedics
• Last Updated: 18 May 2020

This advice sheet has been produced to give you information about a radial head fracture or soft tissue elbow injury. It is not meant to replace discussion between you and your doctor. If after reading it, you require further explanation please discuss this with the relevant person who has been caring for you.

You have had a broad arm sling applied today in the Fracture Clinic.

You should rest the arm in the sling until comfortable (usually a few days). You can then take the arm out, start moving it as demonstrated in clinic and rest it back into the sling for another week or two.

The broad arm sling will need to be removed after 2 to 3 weeks (earlier if pain free) and the arm left free but you must continue to move the elbow.

You should avoid any contact sport i.e. football, rugby, hockey, netball etc. for a further 6 weeks. Care should also be taken if riding bikes etc.

The long-term implication of the injury will have been explained to you. If you have any queries please do not hesitate to ask a member of staff.

Following your appointment today, the doctor has discharged you from clinic. This means you will not have another appointment to see us.

If you have any problems or further queries relating to this injury, please contact us during clinic hours 9.00am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday.

Should you require further advice on the issues contained in this sheet, please do not hesitate to contact the clinic on telephone: (01482) 674378

Under the General Data Protection Regulation and the Data Protection Act 2018 we are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of any information we hold about you. For further information visit the following page: Confidential Information about You.  www.hey.nhs.uk/privacy/data-protection