I am a 72 year old woman who fell at home and broke my right upper radial head on June 21, went to the hospital where a temporary cast was put on with instructions to make an appointment with an orthopedist the following Monday. I could not find an orthopedic surgeon who worked on the elbow who could take me then, but was finally seen by one a week later on the 27th. I was operated on and ligaments were stretched to hold the broken bone in place. Since the cast was removed and I have been in therapy , my wrist and fingers are frequently swollen, and am having great difficulty bending my fingers. Have yet to make a fist, although I can pinch my index finger and thumb , as well as the other fingers even though it is very painful. My orthopedic doctor took an xray of my wrist a week ago and found no break, and simply ordered more therapy. I can not straighten my right arm out completely, but have made progress being able to reach up to my left shoulder. I wondered if I need to be re-evaluated by another doctor, and possibly to have more surgery if it can eliminate this pain and restricted movement. thank you
posted on
Sat, 28 Sep 2013

Sun, 29 Sep 2013
Answered on

Mon, 30 Sep 2013
Last reviewed on