Elbow Pain: Could It Be a Break or Just a Strain?

Learn the signs of a broken elbow, when to seek urgent care, and what to expect during diagnosis and treatment at AFC Farragut.

A sudden elbow injury, whether from a fall, sports activity, or awkward movement, can leave you wondering if it’s broken or something less serious. Pain and swelling around the elbow can feel alarming and make everyday tasks difficult. Understanding when an injury may be a fracture versus a sprain or strain helps you get the right care faster and avoid complications. 

At AFC Farragut, our team provides prompt evaluation and treatment for elbow injuries, helping you understand what’s going on and how best to recover. 

Schedule a visit today. 

Why Elbow Pain Can Be Confusing

Elbow injuries can result from a variety of causes, but people often struggle to know how serious their injury is. Some injuries affect bones, while others involve ligaments, tendons, or muscles. 

Common causes include: 

• Fractures or breaks in one of the elbow bones 

• Sprains or strains to ligaments and soft tissues 

• Dislocations 

• Overuse injuries or tendonitis 

Understanding the difference between a fracture and other injuries can help guide your next steps. 

Common Signs of a Possible Elbow Fracture

You may be more likely dealing with a broken elbow if you notice: 

• Severe pain immediately after the injury 

• Inability to move the elbow normally 

• Visible deformity or unusual angle 

• Significant swelling or bruising 

• Pain when touching the bone or moving the arm 

• Numbness or tingling in the forearm or hand 

Elbow fractures often occur after a fall directly onto the arm, a forceful impact, or a twisting injury. If these symptoms are present, prompt medical evaluation is recommended. 

How Elbow Sprains and Strains Differ

Sprains and strains affect ligaments, tendons, and muscles around the joint rather than the bone itself. Symptoms may include: 

• Mild to moderate pain 

• Tenderness around the joint 

• Slight swelling 

• Pain with activity but range of motion maintained 

Although sprains and strains can be painful, they’re generally less severe than fractures and often respond well to rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) initially. 

When to Get Medical Care

You should seek evaluation at AFC Farragut if:

• You cannot bend or straighten your elbow 

• Pain or swelling worsens 

• You notice deformity or numbness 

• You can’t bear weight on the arm 

• Symptoms don’t improve after a short period of rest 

Our clinicians can perform exams and imaging when needed to determine whether you’re dealing with a fracture or another type of injury. 

How AFC Farragut Helps With Elbow Injuries

At AFC Farragut, we offer: 

• Walk-in evaluation for urgent musculoskeletal injuries 

• On-site assessment of fractures and soft tissue damage 

• Referral for imaging when needed 

• Treatment planning for faster healing 

• Guidance on exercises, bracing, and follow-up care 

Whether your elbow injury is from a recent fall or an overuse injury that’s been lingering, we’re here to provide answers and quality care. 

Understanding Your Next Steps

Elbow injuries can range from mild to serious. Knowing the signs of a possible fracture versus a sprain helps you decide when to seek care. When in doubt, prompt evaluation can prevent long-term problems and start your recovery sooner. 

Walk in or check in online today.