Exercises to increase the mobility of the elbow joint table. Video: Gymnastics for the treatment of pain in the elbow and elbow joints. What can be done at home

The most complete answers to questions on the topic: "exercise therapy for fracture elbow joint set of exercises ".

Elbow joint development after a fracture is the basis for effective rehabilitation after an arm injury. Indeed, during the period when the elbow joint is in a cast, muscles and tendons are in a motionless state. It is fraught partial atrophy and loss of elasticity of ligaments, muscle tissue.

When do they start practicing?

Fracture of the elbow joint is in any case accompanied by the imposition of a plaster cast. During this period, any movements that would keep muscle tissue in good shape are impossible. As a result, tendons and muscles become thinner, shortened, and become less resilient for everyday, and especially sports, movements. But it is the tendons that are responsible for the safe performance of the hand, preventing the occurrence of other injuries.

Due to the above reasons, rehabilitation after a broken arm is very important. We will tell you how to develop an elbow joint after a fracture. Recovery takes place in two stages.

1. The first stage begins while wearing the plaster cast and is no less important than the subsequent ones.
2. The second stage begins immediately after removing the bandage, since during the period of immobility, the flexion function of the elbow suffers significantly. It is necessary to restore it as quickly as possible and return to the normal rhythm of life without the risk of re-injury.

Exercise therapy and gymnastics complex

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective and efficient ways to rehabilitate damaged joints, be it the knee, arm, or other organs. It is recommended to start the simplest exercises on the second day after applying the plaster cast. But a doctor's consultation is required in this matter. Since there are complex fractures, in which you need to restrict mobility longer.

The first stage of rehabilitation

How to develop an arm after a fracture in the first days with a plaster cast? So, as we said, on the second day you can start the most simple exercises... This requires the use of free, non-fixed joints. These include the shoulder, wrist joint, fingers. All parts of the limb still affect the tendons and muscles of the elbow, preventing atrophic changes.

Elbow Exercises:

• lie on your back, move your hand behind your back, trying to put the limb back. Such actions will avoid the appearance of puffiness in the hand;
• clench the phalanges into a fist;
• describe circles with your fingers, each in turn;
• part and bring the phalanges of the brush;
• purchase plasticine and use it to develop fine motor skills of the brush;
• sit on a chair, put your hand on the table, gently raise your hand, but you can only bend the limb at the shoulder joint;
• connect two brushes and gradually wind them behind your head.

A fractured elbow can be very uncomfortable. This is due to the fact that this area has a high functional activity, as well as the presence of anatomical elements (nerves, muscles, blood vessels) in it. The main cause of fractures is injury. An important measure of treatment is exercises for elbow fracture, aimed at its restoration and development.

Fractures are open and closed. Closed are more common and are characterized by the preservation of the skin. Trauma in this case can only be diagnosed by symptoms and using radiography. At open fracture the skin loses its integrity.

The bone of the elbow joint can break into several processes or split into a large number of small pieces. Comminuted fractures are usually closed. In the event of a fracture, bone fragments can move, or they can remain stable. Displacement injuries are much less responsive to treatment.

Another variant of a fracture is a bone fracture, which is accompanied by a violation of the integrity of the bone structure. This fracture is usually the easiest to treat and the outcome is favorable.

Usually, if the treatment and rehabilitation are carried out correctly, then the outcome with a fracture is successful, and complete recovery occurs. But for one reason or another, some complications are possible.

The most dangerous complication is complete loss of limb mobility. This can happen due to the destruction of nerve fibers and as a result of a disruption in the transmission of nerve impulses. the main task therapy - to reduce the risk of complete immobility of the limb to a minimum, although this is not always the case.

A signal of possible problems with a limb can be, for example, pain that occurs in response to movement and persists even after the end of therapy and rehabilitation. To prevent loss of mobility, you need to adhere to all the recommendations of a specialist.

If nerve or vascular fibers are affected by a fracture, then in addition to complete or partial loss of mobility, pain or circulatory disorders are also possible.

Elbow fracture treatment

With a very slight displacement of the joint, about 5-6 cm, the doctor sets it, then applying a fixing bandage and giving recommendations on limiting activity. If the displacement is more than 6 mm, the question of the need for surgical intervention is decided.

The essence surgical treatment in the complete opening of the joint cavity, giving the bone fragments the correct position and fixing them in this form. The technique of osteosynthesis is often used, which is aimed at accelerating bone growth. In case of severe damage to the radial head, replacement with an endoprosthesis can be made. After the operation is done, the limb is fixed with a plaster cast.

With a closed fracture, before surgery, the patient is prescribed medications aimed at relieving edema and inflammatory response. If the fracture is open, then the operation is performed within two hours from the moment of injury.

Please note that the plaster cast is applied not only to the area of ​​the affected joint. The hand is fixed from the base of the fingers to the shoulder joint, set in a bent position. Such fixation complies with all the rules of traumatology and allows the bones to grow together correctly.

For the first time, the plaster splint is removed four weeks after application. This gives the patient the opportunity to begin developing the injured arm.

Rehabilitation

The issue of rehabilitation must be approached especially responsibly, since this area is quite capricious. Doctors advise starting to develop an elbow joint after a fracture with small exercises for fingers and shoulder joints immediately after applying a plaster cast, and a week after the fracture, isotonic muscle contractions can be performed. They involve muscle tension without direct movement. This exercise is great for maintaining muscle tone.

Physiotherapy can begin in the second week after the brace has been applied. It also helps to maintain the tone of muscle tissue, helps to improve blood supply processes, and accelerate the healing of affected areas. In some cases, the patient requires additional devices that help restore limb mobility.

Elbow Development After Fracture: Exercise

The development of the elbow joint itself is the second stage of rehabilitation. It is possible only after removing the plaster cast and with the approval of a doctor.

The second stage of rehabilitation is usually very difficult, since, in addition to following the instructions, it also requires perseverance and self-control. If you don’t devote enough time to developing the joint, you may never regain full mobility.

You cannot immediately bend the elbow after removing the splint from it.

First, the patient needs to do simple exercises for the elbow joint after a fracture, which are performed with outstretched hand... For example, he is asked to sit down at the table, stretch out his injured arm on it and try to lift the elbow from the table only by means of movements in the shoulder.

• Place the injured hand on a firm, level surface. With your healthy hand, make flexion and extension movements in it.
• You can do developmental exercises fine motor skills in the injured hand using a soft ball or stick.
• Flexion and extension of the arm are performed simultaneously with raising it behind the head.

Exercise therapy for elbow fracture: a set of exercises

After consulting a specialist, you can switch from passive movements to more active ones. The doctor must first assess the condition of the joint and give recommendations. In the absence of pathological changes, you can use the following set of exercises:

• Close your hands into the lock and simulate casting a fishing rod, alternately bringing your hands behind your head, then on the left, then on the right side.
• The exercise is done in the same way, but the hands are thrown behind the head on both sides.
• Closing the hands into a lock on the back is performed.
• Hands are put behind the head and folded into the lock. Try to stretch, standing up on the toes, and lower your hands down with your palms up.
• Roll an ordinary children's car on the floor, while doing flexion and extension of the affected limb.
• A set of exercises with a gymnastic stick is performed, also aimed at bending and extending the arms at the elbows.

When the pain and discomfort has passed, you can start doing physical therapy after an elbow fracture with dumbbells. To begin with, the weight of the dumbbell should not be more than 2 kg. Their weight increases gradually, and this should also be discussed with a doctor.

Exercise and massage

Exercises for developing an elbow joint after a fracture should be progressively harder as it develops. The patient needs to understand that it is impossible to remove the brace and immediately begin to act with the injured hand as if it is completely healthy.

Massage can also be used to restore mobility. The opinions of specialists on this topic differ, but nevertheless, in many cases, these manipulations are prescribed, although not immediately after the fracture. It is important that the massage is approved by a doctor.

You can perform massage even before the splint is removed, but in this case it will be directed not at the elbow joint, but at the shoulder girdle area. The procedure has a general strengthening effect on the body and, if done correctly, is very useful.

One common mistake patients make during rehabilitation is overuse of the joint and passive use of the limb. Please note that during this time, you cannot carry any heavy objects with your sore hand and do exercises that involve support on your hands, such as push-ups and pull-ups.

It is also not recommended to perform exercises that provoke severe discomfort. There will be some discomfort, but they should not be too pronounced. Your task is to return mobility to your hand, and not to complete the whole complex by all means.

An elbow fracture is a rather complex injury, and it always requires an extremely responsible approach to rehabilitation measures. If a person does not exert enough effort, he may be left with an inadequately functioning limb for the rest of his life. To prevent this, you need to take care of your own health and follow the instructions of a specialist.

Proper and balanced nutrition also helps speed up the process of recovery and return to normal life. Vitamins C and E have a beneficial effect on ligaments and joints.

Collagen is also important. This component is the main material for connective tissues in the human body, is responsible for their elasticity and firmness.

Collagen is found in large quantities in the following foods:

• sea ​​fish, any seafood;
• poultry meat;
• some fruits: peaches and persimmons;
• cereals: oatmeal, buckwheat.

Vitamin C helps to strengthen the immune system, which is very important for fractures. Other vitamins for bones and joints are also important. They can be obtained both from food products and from additionally consumed vitamin and mineral complexes. The body directs all its resources to restore bone tissue, which makes it weakened and becomes more susceptible to various viruses and infections.

Sources of vitamin C from foods are cabbage, tomatoes, bell peppers, rose hips, citrus fruits, berries.

The human body is actually unique. Its tissues can be restored naturally. But you can help speed up this process significantly by taking all the necessary steps, including exercises to repair your elbow after a fracture. We suggest watching a video demonstrating their implementation.

Technique for performing exercises for a fracture of the elbow joint on video

Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University

Department of "Physical Culture"

On the topic "Medical physical education with injuries of the elbow joint "

Prepared by: student gr. 07-EES

Yu.A. Nedorezov

Checked by: Dolzhunkova I.P.

N. Novgorod 2009

Dislocation of the elbow joint as an injury.

Dislocations in the elbow joint in terms of frequency take the second place. Dislocations of both bones of the forearm are observed posteriorly, anteriorly, outward, inward, divergent dislocation of one radial bone anteriorly, posteriorly, outward; dislocation of one ulna. The most common are posterior dislocations of both bones of the forearm (90%) and dislocation of one radial bone anteriorly. The elbow joint has a complex structure with many articular surfaces, is rich in autonomic innervation, is highly reactive and easily responds to injuries by restriction of movement. This joint is sensitive to immobilization and becomes stiff relatively quickly. Therefore, in case of dislocations of the elbow joint, functional treatment always comes to the fore. To protect the elbow joint from the development of contracture, short-term immobilization and early rehabilitation, carried out even at the stage of the initial unstable contracture, are essential.

Reduction of the posterior dislocation is preferable to carry out under anesthesia. The elbow bent at an acute angle is immobilized with a back plaster cast for 7 days, after which therapeutic exercises are prescribed, combining it with thermal procedures. After the anterior dislocation has been reduced, the forearm is extended to an obtuse angle, fixed with a posterior plaster cast with a supinated forearm for 10-12 days. During rehabilitation after repositioning the dislocation of the elbow joint, it is necessary to take into account that sharp irritations in the joint area (mechanical - massage, redressions - forcible elimination of contracture with the help of plaster casts, devices and apparatus, high temperature thermal procedures, etc.) can intensify contracture and stimulate pathological changes in the tissues.

Rehabilitation periods for elbow dislocation

During rehabilitation, periods are distinguished absolute immobilization and relative immobilization(the limb is temporarily freed from the plaster splint for training physical exercise). The duration of the periods of absolute and relative immobilization is determined by the method of treatment (conservative or surgical), the nature of the damage. With simple dislocations of the forearm bones and conservative treatment, the period of absolute immobilization lasts 3-4 days, relative - 14-15 days.

The third (training) period is also distinguished, in which the function of the elbow joint is finally restored. The breathing exercise alternates with three special or general developmental ones.

1. Period of absolute immobilization.

Physiotherapy is prescribed from the 2nd day after the application of a plaster splint. Against the background of general development and breathing exercises active movements are used in joints free from immobilization, ideomotor exercises, isometric stresses muscles of the shoulder and forearm. Since the muscles of the shoulder are most susceptible to atrophy in dislocations of the elbow joint, patients should first of all be taught rhythmic tension to relax these muscles. Rhythmic tension of the muscles of the forearm is carried out due to flexion and extension movements in the fingers of the hand. The rehabilitation technique should proceed from the state of the biceps brachii muscle, in case of a spasm of which it is necessary to carry out exercises to relax it. It is recommended to carry out extension exercises in the elbow joint simultaneously with pronation (elimination of increased tone). To strengthen weakened extensors, exercise against maximum (but not painful) resistance. Resistance exercises for elbow extensors also help reduce flexor spasm.

First period physiotherapy exercises is divided into two stages. At the first stage (on the second day after the application of the plaster splint), in addition to general developmental and breathing exercises, all kinds of movements are performed in the joints free from plaster (for the fingers, hand and shoulder joint) and the hand is placed on a pillow behind the head or in the abduction position in the shoulder joint. This position is necessary so that swelling of the limb does not develop, pain does not occur and blood and lymph circulation improves. They also send impulses to the fixed elbow and wrist joints (imaginary movements for flexion and extension; muscle tension in the shoulder and forearm).

At the second stage of the first period (a period of about 12 days), a plaster cast is unbandaged on the forearm to the elbow joint and movements for flexion and extension in the elbow joint with an amplitude of 35-45 degrees within the plaster are added to the set of exercises.

Redressing passive exercises are not shown, causing pain and microtrauma of the structures of the elbow joint, for the same reason it is impossible to prescribe the wearing of weight with a sore hand for extension of the elbow joint. This leads to a protective increase in the tone of the biceps brachii muscle and fixation of the contracture.

Sometimes during rehabilitation, a certain stagnation occurs - the volume of movement achieved during the procedure is again limited after a few hours. In such a case, an elastic traction extensor splint can be useful to maintain the achieved range of motion. During the day, it is recommended to give the injured limb an elevated position, since such a position, especially in the early stages of traumatic illness, helps to reduce swelling, pain and prevent stiffness.

Therapeutic exercises are carried out 2-3 times a day. The duration of classes in the first 2-3 days is 10-15, then 20-30 minutes.

2. Period of relative immobilization

During the period of relative immobilization, the main task of exercise therapy is the gradual restoration of joint mobility and the normalization of the function of the muscular apparatus of the limb. Since the consolidation processes at this time have not yet been completed, therapeutic gymnastics is carried out in compliance with a number of conditions:

The patient performs all exercises from lightened starting positions, resting his hand on the table surface or immersing it in water;

Movements should only be active;

The range of motion should be within the range required for gentle and painless stretching of tense muscles;

Passive movements, weights, joint massage and vigorous thermal treatments are excluded.

A set of special exercises for elbow joint injury in the second period.

I. Simplified technique (in the early stages of the 2nd period)

1.I. p. - sitting sideways to the table from the side of the sore arm, whose shoulder lies on the table so that the edge of the table is in armpit, and the forearm - in an upright position, Active flexion and extension in the elbow joint at a slow pace (little finger in the projection parallel to the earlobe) (Fig. left). When performing this exercise, jerking movements in the direction of flexion and extension, assistance with the other hand, pain and forceful flexion or extension are not allowed.

2. I. p. - sitting, the forearm lies on the table, a rolling toy in the fingers. "Rocking" movements (flexion and extension) in the elbow joint - shoulder joint motionless (figure below).

3. I. p. - sitting or standing. Movement on the block - flexion and extension in the elbow joint.

4. I. p. - sitting or standing, in the hands of a stick. All kinds of hand movements for flexion and extension in the elbow joint.

5. I. p. - sitting or standing, in the hands of a large rubber or tennis ball... Throw and catch the ball.

6. I. p. - sitting or standing, tilting the body forward. To bend and straighten the arms at the elbow joints (at the same time with the healthy hand): on the weight, clasped hands in a "lock", placing them on the head, behind the head, etc.

7. I. p. - sitting with hands in warm water (temperature 35-36 degrees). 2 times a day (morning or afternoon and evening) for 10-15 minutes to perform flexion, extension, circular motions, turns of the hand with the forearm with the palm up and down.

II. Extended methodology (at the final stages of the second period)

2. When the body is tilted forward, the hands are locked, swinging the arms up and down.

3. The diseased arm is bent at the elbow joint, with the support of the healthy arm, the injured arm is abducted to the side.

4. Hands to the shoulders, abduction of the elbows to the sides.

5. Hands in front of the chest, bringing the elbows back, connecting the shoulder blades.

6. Hands "in the lock" below. Raise your arms up, bend behind your head, straighten your arms up, palms up, return to and. NS.

Exercises with a gymnastic stick

7. Stick horizontally at the bottom with a grip on the ends, abducting the sore arm to the side, pushing it with a healthy hand with a stick.

8. Stick horizontally at the bottom, turn the stick to a vertical position, injured arm on top.

9. Stick horizontally at the bottom, lift the stick up, put it on the shoulder blades and return to and. NS.

10. Stick horizontally at the bottom behind the back at the width of the pelvis, raise the stick as far as possible, return to and. NS.

Exercises on the gymnastic wall.

11. Standing facing the gymnastic wall, alternately grab hands up on each rail, return to and. NS.

12. Standing facing the wall, hands at shoulder level with an overhand grip, half-squat and squat.

13. Standing with your back to the wall, hands with a grip from above at the level of the pelvis, bend and stretch your arms.

Dumbbell Exercises (0.5-1 kg)

14. Flexion and extension of the arm in the elbow joint.

15. Hand below, slowly raise your arm, shoulder parallel to the floor, bend at the elbow, slowly lower it down.

Ball exercises (volleyball or rubber)

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Arthrologists often prescribe exercises for the elbow joint in addition to complex therapy for arthritis and arthrosis. They are an excellent tool for preventing the progression of degenerative destructive processes. With their help, mobility and functioning in the elbow joints is improved. Physiotherapy improves local blood and lymph flow, stops the destruction of cartilage tissue.

A set of exercises for the elbow joint is performed both at home and in a hospital. Thanks to them, the trophism of the articular elements is significantly improved, stagnant manifestations go away, blood circulation and metabolism are normalized. The main indications for the appointment of exercises for lesions of the elbow joint include such pathological conditions as:

• arthrosis;
• osteoarthritis;
• osteoporosis;
• bursitis;
• synovitis;
• contracture;
• history of trauma;
• relapse prevention;
• weakening of the upper limbs;
• muscle tension;
• the appearance of stiffness;
• restriction of movement;
• unsharp pains.

Gymnastics for the elbow joint is effective in stages 1 and 2 of a dystrophic or inflammatory process. It is not carried out with 3 degrees of damage, as well as with severe arthralgia and exudative phenomena.

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Basic principles: how to do the exercises?

Exercise should not cause pain or discomfort.

Therapeutic gymnastics is carried out in compliance with a number of rules. Only in this case will the sessions be effective and will not harm the patient. The doctor, when drawing up an action plan, takes into account the age, severity, degree, and the presence of concomitant ailments. When starting a set of classes, you need to know and observe the following important measures:

• Before starting gymnastics, consult a doctor. It is the doctor who selects and prescribes the exercises.
• Drink plenty of clean water.
• Start with a minimal load, gradually building it up.
• Before starting, do not forget about a 5-minute warm-up to improve blood flow and warm muscles.
• Do the exercises in the correct order from top to bottom. Start at the neck and work your way up to the shoulders and forearms.
• Watch the mobility of your elbows and shoulder.
• Perform all movements carefully and smoothly.
• Give up sharp jerks, heavy techniques.
• Start classes only after the pain and inflammatory syndrome subsides.
• Stop immediately if you experience severe, unbearable pain.

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How are passive exercises done?

Exercise therapy is an integral part of rehabilitation.

For the rehabilitation of the joint during the period of abatement of the acute process, gymnastics is prescribed. It begins with passive movements, which include:

• The sore arm is clasped with a healthy hand and gently bent until a feeling of tension appears. The limiting angle between the forearm and the hand should be no more than 90 degrees.
• The upper limb is kept in tension for 20 seconds, then lowered down.
• The next time, the movement is repeated, but now the palm is taken up. The optimal number of repetitions is 12 times.
• A good proven exercise is the palmar technique. The brushes are opened and placed on the table, the elbows are slightly bent. The patient deviates from the table between the palms and the forearm, a right angle is formed. Spend 10 to 15 times.

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Complex of active activities

When performing this complex, the shoulder joint is motionless, all movements are carried out in the elbow joint. For this, the forearm is bent and unbend. Exercise with an expander brings excellent results. It is put on the injured arm, the hand of the healthy upper limb is placed on the table, on top of it the sick one. The expander is gently stretched, flexion and extension movements are carried out in the sore elbow joint. To achieve a positive result, they practice daily with repetitions up to 15 times. Most effective types lessons are presented in the table:

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What do doctors prescribe after injuries?

Exercise will help repair your wrist joint.

Recovery of the elbow after injury occurs gradually. To improve the functions and the fastest rehabilitation for injuries of the elbow joint, daily gymnastics are prescribed. Perform the following effective exercises:

• 2 balls are rolled in the palms, duration 5-10 minutes, a healthy and damaged hand is used. Perform at least 3 times a day. The load is increasing.
• Bend the affected arm at the elbow perpendicularly, rotate around the axis for 3 minutes. Perform very carefully and carefully, especially after fractures, tears.
• The palms are brought into the castle. They are alternately withdrawn, performing movements like casting a fishing rod. They rest for a couple of minutes and throw their hands behind their heads.
• Brushes are placed on the table surface. The phalanges are flexed and extended. Perform up to 12 times.
• Palms on the table, alternately carry out flexion and extension movements in the wrist joints. Then they do a simultaneous synchronous exercise. The number of repetitions up to 10 times.

Physical education will strengthen bone and muscle tissue.

Exercises for contracture of the elbow joint strengthen muscle, bone and cartilage tissue. In addition, they restore coordination of movements, prevent atrophic and deforming processes. Accessories such as a ball, a gymnastic stick, dumbbells are a good help for execution. Basic techniques:

• Sitting at the table, roll a ball, a toy.
• Flex and unbend the elbow with the shoulder fixed.
• Throw balls of different diameters from tennis to volleyball.
• Holding a gymnastic cane in your hands, perform flexion and extension.
• Dip your elbows and hands into 38-degree water, draw circles, rotate your hands, rotate from top to bottom, and vice versa.

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Power engineering

A strengthening set of exercises is carried out in order to improve the functional state of muscle tissues. A required attribute is any heavy object that has a handle or grip. You can use a hammer that is taken in the palm of your hand. The hand is turned with the back up, at the same time the elbow is at a right or obtuse angle. Then comes the return to the starting position. Rotations in the elbow joints are carried out in 2 main approaches, a frequency of 10 times.

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General strengthening exercises for the elbow joints

Exercise therapy for contracture of the elbow joint includes the systematic implementation of a complex that strengthens the cartilage-articular tissues. It helps to stop destructive phenomena in the joints. General strengthening exercises to develop the elbow joint keep the tissues in good shape at all times. In case of damage to the elbow region, you can wave your hands, alternately lift it up while inhaling.

The video on this page presents gymnastics for the treatment of pain in the elbow and elbow joints.

With the help of our set of exercises, you can significantly reduce or completely eliminate pain in the elbows - depending on what kind of disease of the elbow joints you are suffering from.

Especially well gymnastics of Dr. Evdokimenko helps in the treatment of epicondylitis of the elbow joint "

And, oddly enough, exercises from our complex help very well in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome - although, formally, this disease has nothing to do with the elbow joint. However, the exercises suggested here help relieve tension not only from the elbows, but also from the wrist.

At elbow arthrosis treatment our gymnastics also helps, but less effectively than with epicondylitis. Which is understandable - arthrosis is often accompanied by bone deformation, and it is impossible to eliminate it with the help of gymnastics.

Nevertheless, with the help of our gymnastics with arthrosis of the elbow joint, it is possible to achieve a significant reduction in pain and an increase in elbow mobility by 50-70%.

In addition to the diseases listed, the exercises in this video can help improve elbow mobility after chronic arm injuries.

Note!

These exercises not only treat elbow joint problems, they are also good at relieving stress on overworked elbow tendons - for example, when playing sports, or after dacha load carrying heavy bags, etc.

Contraindications to remedial gymnastics

Therapeutic gymnastics is a fairly serious method of treatment that has its own contraindications.

For all their usefulness, these exercises cannot be performed:

For fresh elbow injuries, elbow dislocations and elbow sprains;
with arthritis of the elbow joint in the acute stage; but with persistent remission of arthritis, these exercises can be done;
at elevated body temperature (above 37.5 ºС); with flu, SARS and sore throat - you need to wait for recovery and wait at least another 3-4 days;
at least 3 months after elbow surgery; further - only by agreement with the operating surgeon.

Attention!

If a particular exercise causes severe pain, then it is contraindicated for you or you are performing it incorrectly. In this case, it is better not to do it, or at least postpone it until consulting your doctor.

Exercise rules

You need to do the exercises daily, 1-2 times a day, for at least 3-4 weeks.

Exercise with caution and avoid severe pain.

Although mild, tolerable pain caused by stretching of the tendons is almost inevitable with these exercises. The main thing here is not to overdo it. Increase the load and increase arm mobility gradually.

And remember that even with proper gymnastics, improvement does not come immediately. In the first 2 weeks of exercising, pain in the elbow may even increase slightly, but after 3 to 4 weeks you will feel the first signs of improving your well-being.

I wish you the will and perseverance necessary to return the former ease of movement!

Exercises for the elbow joints: gymnastics for the elbows with arthrosis

A person, regardless of occupation and age, can suffer from problems of the elbow joint. We are often talking about pathological changes in the form of hypertonicity and violations of the flexion function of the forearm.

At the same time, the mobility of the hand is significantly reduced.

The goal of the elbow exercises is to stimulate the flexor muscles if they are stretched.

Exercises for the elbow joint can be carried out both slowly and in fast pace resting his hand on the surface.

Exercises for arthrosis, epicondylitis

The use of hyaluronic acid preparations and chondroprotectors will help increase joint nutrition, normalize the performance of cartilage tissue, improve elbow mobility and the quality of synovial (articular) fluid.

But this is possible provided that with arthrosis exercises are performed systematically.

If the patient's work is associated with a load on the arm with constant extension of the elbow, then soon he will develop epicondylitis. It is called by:

• microtrauma of tissues;
• development of the inflammatory process;
• overloading of the tendons.

The main goal of the exercise for the elbow joint is to strengthen and normalize regional microcirculation, eliminate pain in the affected area, restore full-fledged movements, and prevent muscle atrophy.

Therapeutic gymnastics is a component of a comprehensive treatment. It helps to restore adequate work of the affected limb. It is important to pay maximum attention to loads of varying degrees of intensity, and a healthy hand should be included in the process of performing a set of exercises for arthrosis.

Gymnastics includes the following exercises:

1. with arms bent at the elbow, clench and unclench fists;
2. when stationary shoulder girdle unbend and flex the forearms;
3. perform "mill" and "scissors";
4. with the hands connected, unbend and bend the elbows;
5. the shoulders and forearms perform circular movements inward and outward.

What should be remembered with arthrosis?

It often happens that pathologies and injuries of the elbow joint are caused by weakness of the ligaments and tendons located near the joint. If these anatomical components are stretched, then this contributes to the normal functioning of the elbow.

However, sometimes they can remain motionless and quickly lose elasticity. To restore the function of the elbow after a fracture or arthrosis, the elbow joint should be well developed.

For joint and bone diseases, physiotherapy and physiotherapy exercises are indicated. The recovery time will be from 2 weeks to 1.5 months.

It is also possible to carry out breathing exercises, tension of the elbow muscles, various movements of the joints of the fingers and shoulder.

How to develop correctly?

In order to properly work on your elbow joint, you should sit on a chair, and put the affected shoulder on the table, stretching out your arm. Extension and flexion of the limb at the elbow are performed. In the same position of the body, without moving the forearm, they roll a small ball on a flat surface, maybe a tennis one.

You can do any exercise by helping yourself with a stick or ball. Exercise should be smooth and pain-free. If the slightest discomfort is felt, it is strictly forbidden to endure it, and the lesson is stopped.

Therapeutic exercises for arthrosis can be done in the pool. Each exercise is repeated 5 times, and in time the gymnastics should not last more than 15 minutes.

During rehabilitation therapy, one should not overwork muscles, repeat monotonous movements and carry heavy objects. This often provokes muscle calcification and the development of bone deformities.

The elbow joint is one of the most difficult in the human body. It is formed by the articulations of three bones: humerus, radius and ulnar, which are enclosed in a common joint bag. In addition, large vessels and nerves pass through the joint, which are responsible for the blood supply and innervation of the hand and forearm.

The common joint capsule is not the only feature in the anatomy of the elbow joint. The fact is that the capsule itself is very thin, loosely stretched and, when bent, forms numerous folds. Its lateral sections have two rather strong ligaments, but the anterior and posterior ones are devoid of them. It is because of this structure that dislocations, subluxations, strains and tears of ligaments and muscles often occur in the elbow joint.

Tearing or stretching?

Those who have hit with an elbow at least once with a sharp, piercing pain throughout the arm is well known. However, it does not arise at all due to injury. The reason is pinching of the ulnar nerve, which in this place is located too close to the surface of the skin and is almost not covered by muscles. Distinguishing such a pinch from a more serious injury is quite simple. The pain with it, although it manifests itself strongly, often causing numbness of the hand, but it is like literally a few minutes.

If a ligament or muscle is stretched or torn, the pain will not go away on its own in a short time. According to statistics, these two injuries are the most common both in everyday life and in sports. Although the term "stretching" is not entirely correct. By their structure, the ligaments are non-rubber and do not know how to stretch.

Speaking about stretching the ligaments of the elbow joint, doctors mean their partial rupture, in which only individual fibers are affected. Rupture is a more severe injury in which a complete break of the ligament occurs or its separation from the bone at the site of attachment.

Causes

Elbow injuries can be caused by sharp movements, especially in uncomfortable amplitude, impacts when falling, or attempts to sharply lift something heavy. Constant, intense physical stress can also cause sprains or ligaments to break, for example, if you do heavy work with your hands day in and day out. A sharp, severe muscle spasm can also provoke injury, although this is quite rare.

But injuries are far from the only reason that can cause damage to the elbow. Ligament rupture can be the result of degenerative changes in the joints and muscles that occur in the body with age. The cause of damage in this case is impaired blood circulation and the appearance of bone growths - osteophytes, which can occur in people over 50 years old. In addition, some diseases, for example, tuberculosis or diabetes mellitus, can lead to rupture of ligaments, both partial and complete.

Symptoms

Despite the similarity of symptoms when stretching or tearing, there are still small differences between them. Usually, signs of damage to the ligaments appear on the rise and after a while can be more pronounced than in the first minutes after the injury. The main symptoms of a stretch will be:

• Pain that does not subside at rest.
• Swelling of the injured area.
• Soreness to pressure.
• Limited mobility.

Ligament rupture can have much the same symptoms, but they will be more pronounced, especially pain and swelling. Due to the contraction of the injured muscle, in some cases, you can even feel a small fossa - a place of retraction, which is located near the place of attachment of the ligament. In addition to them, symptoms such as often occur:

• Joint instability.
• Changes in its shape if a ligament rupture is caused by a dislocation or fracture. This will be especially noticeable when compared with the joint of the other hand.
• Hematomas provoked by joint hemorrhage.
• Tingling and numbness in the hand, caused by poor circulation.
• Local temperature rise.

It is rather difficult to distinguish elbow joint ligament sprain from rupture on your own. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a doctor, based on an X-ray or MRI.

Treatment

First aid for sprains and ruptures of the ligaments is to ensure the immobility of the arm. If possible, a cold compress should be applied to the affected area. This simple remedy will prevent swelling from developing and relieve some pain. But it is better to avoid warming up and warm compresses, and not only immediately after the injury, but also in the first two days.

Normal sprains do not require any complicated treatment methods and are limited only to the application of a fixation bandage so that the damaged ligaments heal faster. But if a rupture occurs, you cannot do without the help of a doctor. Especially when blood or synovial fluid has accumulated in the joint.

In most cases, the treatment will be conservative, but sometimes surgery is required, in which the torn ligaments are restored using tendons taken from the muscles of the forearm. After the operation, a splint is applied to the affected elbow for about two weeks. Then the restoration of the joint occurs with the help of physiotherapy and special exercises.

Medication

Even with mild sprains, you may need pain relievers. If the injury turned out to be serious, then you will definitely not be able to do without them. As a rule, doctors select a treatment regimen aimed not only at eliminating pain, but also at relieving inflammation and edema. Basically, for this purpose, they are used:

1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in tablets, injections, or ointments.
2. Cooling gels such as Indovazin or Troxerutin can also help relieve swelling, restore microcirculation in the joint, and reduce hematoma.
3. Preparations containing B vitamins, which will help restore nerve conduction in the damaged joint.
4. Drugs aimed at relieving inflammation and accelerating the regeneration processes of damaged ligaments, such as Traumeel or Zel T.

Folk remedies

Prescriptions will work well with the treatment prescribed by your doctor. traditional medicine... They can be used as an additional tool during the rehabilitation period, after the fixing bandage is removed from the hand. If you have an uncomplicated sprain, then such treatment will not only relieve pain and swelling, but will also help the affected ligaments recover faster. You can prepare them according to the following recipes:

• Peel and grate raw potatoes, mix with chopped onions or honey in equal proportions, apply to the sore joint, covered with foil and warm cloth. Keep for no more than two hours.
• Dilute blue clay with water and add a little fir or eucalyptus oil. Apply the mixture to a clean cloth with a layer of at least two centimeters. Apply to joint and hold until mixture dries.
• Scarlet can also be used as a compress. To do this, fresh leaves need to be crushed, distributed the resulting gruel in an even layer over the sore spot, covered with foil and rewound with a warm cloth.

Elbow injuries are dangerous, first of all, because they can easily lead to rupture of the thin articular membrane. If this happens, infection and inflammation can invade other tissues, such as the fatty tissue of the forearm. But most often, with timely access to a doctor and proper treatment, even serious injuries pass without a trace.

Physical education for epicondylitis of the elbow joint is one of the ways to treat this disease. It is characterized by acute pain in the affected area, so you can start exercising when the disease is in remission.

The benefits of exercise

With the help of gymnastics, you can improve blood flow in the hand, ligament mobility, strengthen muscles and stimulate the active formation of synovial fluid. This is necessary in order to develop the resistance of the elbow joint to physical stress.

Maximum benefit physiotherapy will bring if certain rules are followed. Loads should increase gradually. The exercises may not take long at first. It will increase as the joint strengthens.

Exercise therapy should not be painful. If it occurs, especially sharp and acute, it is necessary to abandon such therapy and contact a medical institution.

The doctor will determine the appropriateness of continuing the studies. In any case, exercises for epicondylitis of the elbow joint are prescribed by a specialist.

The doctor takes into account how old the patient is, what his general physical fitness is and how active image life he leads, necessarily takes into account the contraindications for gymnastics. It is necessary to refuse to perform exercises if the patient has:

• chronic diseases have worsened;
• recently had a stroke;
• age 70 and older;
• history of cardiovascular malformations.

At first, classes are held under the supervision of a specialist, then you can perform exercise therapy at home by yourself. After surgery, it is allowed to develop the joint only after 2 months.

Wellness gymnastics complex

Exercises for the treatment of epicondylitis are divided into 2 types: strengthening muscles and stretching them. Performing the complex, they also use the other, healthy hand.

Passive muscle stretching exercises:

1. Stand near the table, lightly rest your brushes on it. Lean forward slowly until a 90º angle is formed between the palms and shoulders.
2. Turn the hands over (palms up). The fingers are directed towards the body. Slightly bending your elbows, slowly lean back.
3. Grasp the opposite hand with your good hand and smoothly rotate it in different directions. At the extreme points, linger for a few seconds. During the exercise, a slight tension should be felt in the elbow joint. Repeat twice a day, 10 times.

Having mastered this course, making sure that there is no discomfort, you can do active exercises to strengthen the muscles:

1. Alternately clench and unclench the fist of the arm bent at the elbow.
2. Fasten the brushes in the lock, stretch your arms forward. Rotate your wrists slowly.
3. Flex and unbend the forearms. The shoulder itself must remain motionless.
4. Rotate with your shoulders, then your forearms.
5. Stretch your arms forward. Alternately cross one over the other (exercise "scissors").

For execution following exercises you will need a rubber band and a gymnastic stick.

1. Wrap the tourniquet in the palm of your hand. With the brush of your good hand, rest on the table, cover it with the other. Smoothly bend and unbend the upper one, feeling the resistance of the tourniquet. Then turn your palm up and repeat.
2. Standing, hands shoulder-width apart. Hold the stick upright in front of you. Rotate your hand slowly until the stick is horizontal (palm down). Return to starting position. Do the exercise again (palm up). Do 40 times in 2 sets.

Next stage - strength exercises Exercise therapy. They are not shown to everyone. You need to be extremely careful when doing them. 2 sets of 10 repetitions with a three-minute pause will be enough.

1. Take a hammer or any object approximately equal to it in weight in a hand bent at the elbow at a right angle, the palm looks up. Flex and extend the wrist.
2. The same thing, just turn the brush with the back side up.

Can be used for classes carpal expander... Just do not overexert yourself. It is imperative to remember: therapeutic exercises are performed every day.

Exercise therapy doctor Bubnovsky

Before proceeding with the implementation of the complex, you need to remember the conditions and observe them:

• do exercises 2 hours after eating;
• follow the drinking regime (at least 1.5 liters of liquid per day);
• do a light warm-up before class;
• after gymnastics, take a shower, rubbing your hands with a terry towel;
• control breathing (it should be in time with the movement).

Here exemplary complex exercises according to the Bubnovsky method:

• raise your arms with dumbbells, spread them to the sides;
• with the thumb of the left hand, touch all fingers of the right one in turn, then vice versa;
• put your palm on the table, cover with the other and, overcoming resistance, raise it;
• hands on the table, alternately raise your fingers;
• clench your fists, slowly bend and unbend your hands at the wrist;
• elbows on the table, smoothly spread them apart until palms touch each other and a hard surface;
• grasp the other with one hand and gently rotate the brush;
• clasp hands into the lock, then spread apart;
• press with the palm of your hand on a small ball lying on a hard surface.

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Exercise therapy for damage to the capsular-ligamentous structures of the elbow joint

To restore the function or compensate for the functional inconsistency of the elbow joint in case of damage to its capsular-ligamentous structures, it is necessary to carry out complex complex rehabilitation measures, taking into account the pathogenesis of the syndrome of instability and secondary changes associated with it.

In case of partial damage to the capsular-ligamentous structures of the elbow joint (medial section), treatment is conservative. In acute trauma, immobilization is necessary to create conditions that are optimal for the formation of a full-fledged connective tissue scar (immobilization period). In the future, the amplitude of passive movements should be restored so as not to overstretch this scar (early postimmobilization period). At the same time, it is necessary to train the periarticular muscles, which play the role of active stabilizers of the elbow joint. In this regard, hydrokinesis therapy in this group of patients is used to a limited extent, since it promotes muscle relaxation and can cause an excessively rapid increase in the range of motion.

In the future, after the restoration of the range of motion, enhanced training of the strength of the periarticular muscles is carried out. At the same time, excessive loads on the forming scar should not be allowed - forced radiation deviation of the forearm. And only after the restoration of the amplitude, strength and endurance for long-term work is the task of restoring the coordination of movements with additional burden and resistance (sports movements). In addition to the functional characteristics, with increasing loads, it is always necessary to focus on the phases of the formation of the connective tissue scar. To intensive power loads you can start no earlier than 2.5 months. after such an injury.

To accelerate the process of restoring the strength of the periarticular muscles, additional funds rehabilitation:
1) training with biofeedback by strength;
2) isokinetic training;
3) dynamic electrical muscle stimulation with weights;
4) manual massage of the muscles of the shoulder and forearm using a tonic technique (without direct impact on the elbow joint).

With more pronounced post-traumatic instability of the elbow joint, surgical treatment.

The rehabilitation program after surgical treatment of the elbow joint instability consists of four periods:
I period - early postoperative (immobilization of the elbow joint).
II period - late postoperative (restoration of mobility).
III period - pre-training period (restoration of stability).
IV period - training.

The objectives of the first period are the prevention of muscle hypotrophy of the operated limb, improvement of peripheral blood flow and maintenance of general professional and sports performance.

For this purpose, isometric muscle contractions are used, which can be rhythmic and prolonged. Rhythmic tensions are performed at a rhythm of 30-50 times per minute. Muscle tensions held for 3 seconds or more are considered long-term. The optimal duration of the isometric stress is 5-7 s. Prolonged isometric tensions are necessary to increase muscle strength.

From the 2nd day after the operation, rhythmic isometric tension of the flexor muscles of the hand, fingers and shoulder begins by attempting to perform movements in the corresponding joints. During one lesson, 10-12 voltages are considered optimal. During the day, patients should repeat the exercises up to 20 times.

From 3-4 days after the operation, isometric stresses become prolonged. Special attention at the same time, it is given to the synergistic muscles of the medial ligament, as well as the triceps muscle of the shoulder.

For selective isometric muscle training at this stage, the use of biofeedback by EMG is most effective.

After normalization of the general condition (5-7 days after the operation), general developmental exercises, active movements with resistance and weights for a healthy limb, walking at an average pace, light jogging, jumping in place, squats, lunges exercises on simulators are used to maintain sports performance treadmill, etc.). The load gradually increases due to an increase in the duration of the session and a decrease in rest pauses.

In addition to LH, during immobilization, a course of rhythmic electrical stimulation of the triceps muscle and extensors of the hand is carried out.

With pronounced edema of the periarticular soft tissues, UHF therapy is prescribed in an oligothermal dosage or magnetotherapy.

In the second period, simultaneously with the restoration of mobility in the elbow joint, exercises to maintain sports performance are continued.

After the termination of immobilization, a special orthosis is put on the arm - a splint, consisting of a sleeve of the shoulder and forearm, which are connected by two hinges with locks that ensure the setting of the limits of the permissible range of motion.

In the first 3-4 days, relaxation exercises are used: active voluntary and post-isometric relaxation. Exercises for stretching the para-articular tissues are performed strictly in the plane of movement in the shoulder joint, excluding the lateral deviation of the forearm (active-facilitated movements and self-help exercises). Each procedure ends with the placement of the operated limb in the position of flexion and extension of the elbow joint (postural exercise). In the case of delayed recovery of mobility, a "sliding" laying is applied using a roller carriage and on an inclined polished panel.

After the restoration of the full range of motion in the joint, period III begins, the main task of which is to increase the strength and endurance of the muscles surrounding the elbow joint. Exercises with resistance, weights up to 6 kg, an expander, etc. are used. Exercises that cause tension in the medial region of the capsular-ligamentous apparatus are excluded. As a rule, the movements are performed in a special splint with hinges, which prevents the deviation of the forearm.

Additional funds are also used to speed up the process of restoring the strength of the periarticular muscles. This is training with biofeedback by strength, isokinetic training, dynamic electrical stimulation of muscles with weights, manual massage of the muscles of the shoulder and forearm (without the elbow joint) according to the tonic technique.

Together with special exercises general tonic, auxiliary and imitation sports exercises are performed (running, walking, game elements, exercises with weights for the legs and trunk, imitation of a jerk and jerk with a gymnastic stick for weightlifters, gripping techniques, rubber band wrestlers); gymnasts perform exercises for flexibility, coordination, balance, etc.

At the end of the pre-training period (more than 2.5 months after the operation), the load on both the total and the operated joint gradually increases, approaching the usual for this kind of sport or profession. The rate of fitness recovery depends on the specialization and qualifications of the athlete. Representatives of the group of martial arts, complex coordination and speed-strength sports start training at a later date than those involved in cyclic sports.

The criterion for admitting an athlete to training is the absence of pain in the area of ​​damage to the capsular-ligamentous apparatus under load on the joint and tension of the medial ligament, the absence of atrophy of the surrounding muscles, normalization of their elasticity and bioelectric activity. The most informative is isometric and isokinetic testing.

M.B. Tsykunov