Gymnastics is a sport of tumbling, flipping and jumping. In 2007, more than 69,000 children under the age of 14 required medical treatment for gymnastics-related injuries, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. The elbow frequently falls victim to gymnastic injuries. Warm-ups and stretches helps prevent elbow injuries. However, it is important to recognize the signs of an elbow injury. You should always seek medical treatment if you suspect you have sustained a gymnastics-related elbow injury.
Contusions
An elbow contusion occurs as a direct blow to the elbow, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. A contusion can be a simple bruise to the muscle or can cause deep tissue damage to the elbow. You may notice swelling or bleeding underneath the skin. Contusions should be diagnosed by a physician, who will often order an ultrasound, MRI or CT scan to confirm a diagnosis. For the weeks following an elbow contusion, you may experience pain, swelling and a limited range of motion. You should rest, apply ice, wrap your elbow with a soft bandage and try to keep your elbow raised above your heart as frequently as possible. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy.
Dislocation
For gymnasts, an elbow dislocation may occur as the result of a direct fall on the elbow. A dislocation means the elbow has been forced out of its normal positioning and away from the arm bones, according to The Sports Injury Clinic. There is usually a twisting motion that occurs when you dislocate your elbow. Deformity, pain, bruising and swelling are the signs of an elbow dislocation. You need to visit an emergency room or doctor immediately following an elbow dislocation. The doctor will assess your arm, perform an X-ray and manipulate the elbow back into its appropriate position. You will likely have your elbow in a sling for a couple of weeks following your injury. Physical rehabilitation rebuilds strength and motion.
Fracture
Falling on your elbow directly during gymnastics can result in a fractured elbow. The elbow has little protection from the surrounding muscles and tissue according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. After a fall or direct blow to the elbow, you may experience sudden, intense pain, the inability to straighten your arm, swelling, bruising, tenderness, numbness in your fingers or pain while attempting to move your elbow. The pain of an elbow fracture generally sends a gymnast to the emergency room. A doctor will examine your elbow as well as your arm. An X-ray is also likely to be performed. Depending on the severity of the fracture, you may be placed in a cast or require surgical treatment. Only your doctor can determine the appropriate course of action specific to your injury. As you heal, it is likely that physical therapy will be prescribed before you can return to gymnastics.
Tendinitis
Elbow tendinitis describes inflammation of the tendons surrounding the elbow, causing pain and tenderness around the elbow, according to the MayoClinic website. The elbow is one of the more common areas of the body to experience tendinitis. In gymnastics, tendinitis is likely caused by repetitive movements overtime. Each time the tendon performs a particular task, the tendon becomes more and more aggravated. If you have elbow tendinitis you may also experience a dull ache around your elbow and swelling. Tendinitis is usually diagnosed with just a physical exam. However, X-rays may be taken to rule out any more complicated problems. Doctors recommend rest in order to alleviate tendinitis. Anti-inflammatory medications can treat pain. Physical therapy may also be suggested in order to stretch and strengthened the tendon. Your doctor may allow you to perform gymnastic exercises that do not impact the elbow as your recover.
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