Elbow Contusion Overview
What is an elbow contusion?
A person with an elbow contusion has a bruise to the soft tissues overlying the elbow joint. The most common cause of an elbow contusion is a direct force applied to the elbow, such as a fall onto the elbow. 
What are the symptoms of an elbow contusion?
Symptoms of an elbow contusion include elbow pain, elbow swelling, elbow tenderness, and bruising of the skin.
How does the doctor treat an elbow contusion?
Treatment for an elbow contusion may include rest, elevation, cold compresses, and a sling. Elastic wrapping the elbow may help limit swelling and provide support. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or narcotic pain medications may be prescribed for pain control. 
Continue to Elbow Contusion Symptoms
Last Updated: Feb 9, 2010 References
Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MD; John H. Beckett, MD; D. Scott Gettings, MD
Copyright DSHI Systems, Inc. Powered by: FreeMD - Your Virtual Doctor
- Beiner JM, Jokl P. Muscle contusion injuries: current treatment options. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2001 Jul-Aug;9(4):227-37. [11476532]
- Berg E. Deep muscle contusion complicated by myositis ossificans (a.k.a. heterotopic bone). Orthop Nurs. 2000 Nov-Dec;19(6):66-7. [11899311]
- Centeno CJ, Freeman M, Elkins WL. A review of the literature refuting the concept of minor impact soft tissue injury. Pain Res Manag. 2005 Summer;10(2):71-4. [15915248]
- Guzman J, Yassi A, Cooper JE, Khokhar J. Return to work after occupational injury. Family physicians' perspectives on soft-tissue injuries. Can Fam Physician. 2002 Dec;48:1912-9. [12520791]
- Tull F, Borrelli J Jr. Soft-tissue injury associated with closed fractures: evaluation and management. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2003 Nov-Dec;11(6):431-8. [14686828]