ORIF Elbow

What is ORIF of the Elbow?

ORIF (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation) is a surgical procedure used to realign and stabilise fractured bones in the elbow joint.

During surgery:

• The bones are repositioned (open reduction)
• Screws, plates, or wires are used to stabilise them (internal fixation)

This is required when:

• Fractures are displaced
• Bones are unstable or fragmented
• A cast alone is not sufficient

Understanding the Elbow Joint

The elbow joint is formed by:

• Humerus (upper arm bone)
• Ulna (inner forearm bone)
• Radius (outer forearm bone)

Fractures may occur in:

• Distal humerus
• Proximal ulna
• Radial head

In some cases:

• Multiple structures are involved
• Fractures may occur with dislocation

How Do Elbow Fractures Happen?

Common causes include:

• Falling onto an outstretched hand
• Direct trauma to the elbow
• Sports injuries or accidents

People often describe:

• “fell on my arm and now elbow hurts badly”
• “cannot bend or straighten elbow”
• “sharp pain when moving elbow”

Symptoms (Real-World Search Intent)

• Pain and swelling
• Stiffness in the elbow
• Reduced range of movement
• Weakness in the arm
• Difficulty using the arm

When is ORIF Needed?

• Non-displaced fractures → managed conservatively
• Displaced or comminuted fractures → require ORIF

Surgery helps:

• Restore proper alignment
• Prevent deformity
• Improve long-term function

Symptoms After Elbow ORIF

After surgery, you may experience:

• Pain and swelling
• Stiffness
• Reduced movement
• Weakness and loss of control

You may:

• Wear a removable cast (3–6 weeks)
• Use a sling for support
• Be advised not to drive initially

Physiotherapy After Elbow ORIF

Physiotherapy is essential to restore full upper limb function.

At 👉 acephysiosport.com your rehabilitation is tailored to each recovery phase.

Week 1 (Early Phase)

Focus: pain control and gentle movement

• Pain and swelling management
• Gentle mobility exercises
• Maintaining wrist and shoulder movement
• Protecting the elbow

Weeks 1–4 (Mobility Phase)

Focus: reducing stiffness and improving movement

• Passive (assisted) movement exercises
• Progression to active movement
• Home exercise programme
• Gradual increase in mobility

Weeks 5–8 (Strength Phase)

Focus: building strength and flexibility

• Strengthening exercises for elbow
• Continued mobility work
• Strengthening wrist and shoulder
• Gentle functional activities

Weeks 9–12 (Advanced Rehab)

Focus: restoring full function

• Advanced strengthening
• Improving coordination and control
• Preventing scar tissue stiffness
• Functional and activity-specific exercises

3 Months+ (Return to Activity)

Focus: full recovery and performance

• Sport- or work-specific training
• Endurance and conditioning
• Full movement restoration

Recovery & Long-Term Outcomes

With proper physiotherapy:

• Range of motion improves
• Strength returns
• Daily function is restored

Typical recovery:

• 3 months or longer depending on severity

Without rehabilitation:

• Chronic stiffness
• Weakness and reduced function
• Limited arm use

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports in Singapore

If you are looking for elbow ORIF physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can help.

• Expertise in post-surgical upper limb rehab
• Personalised treatment programmes
• Focus on restoring full arm function
• Evidence-based physiotherapy care
• Conveniently located near East Coast Road

We help you return to pain-free movement and normal activities.

Book Appointment

If you have undergone elbow ORIF surgery, early physiotherapy is essential for optimal recovery.

Book your session now: 👉 acephysiosport.com 📞 +65 81535374

Start your recovery with expert physiotherapy in Singapore.