Elbow Hyperextension Injury (Over straightening of the elbow)

What is an elbow hyperextension injury?

An elbow hyperextension injury occurs when the elbow is bent back the wrong way. This type of injury will occur more frequently in contact sports such as Rugby Football or certain martial arts e.g. JuJitsu. The elbow pain is caused when the elbow is forced to bend the wrong way or hyperextend causing damage to the ligaments and structures of the elbow.

What can the athlete do to prevent elbow hyperextension injury?

• Immediate treatment involves application of cold therapy and compression.
• Rest until symptoms resolve.
• Wear a support or heat retainer.
• Apply strapping to prevent the elbow from hyper extending (bending backwards) whilst healing.

What can a sports injury therapist to reduce elbow pain?

• Advise on rehabilitation.
• Use ultrasound to help reduce pain and swelling.
• Apply taping to give the elbow support and prevent hyperextension.