What causes pain in my elbow area after an accident?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was involved in a car accident which my vehicle ran reverse on my left arm and got swelling and bruises all over my arm and now when I try to lay my arm down on something, there is a lot of pain in the elbow area and around the top of the elbow area and the doctor says there is nothing broken. I am just wondering what I should do. It is warm to the touch.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

There must be crushing of the tissues and what is called internal degloving and a collection of blood called a hematoma and that causes the part to be swollen and warm to touch. As long as there is no fracture then you do not need a plaster but a sling to rest the arm is mandatory till the pain comes under control and the swelling reduces. The sling will also enforce rest to the part and will help keep the forearm from swelling up. Ice the arm and elbow 20 minutes for five to six times a day. Elevate when in bed on two pillows. If no better in a week then re-visit a doctor for a review.