Elbow Dislocation: Physiotherapy and Recovery

Written by Zita Sham, Fairuuz Saleh and Shiv Mohan Banka, Principal Physiotherapists at Phoenix Rehab.Clinically reviewed by Nigel Chua, Principal Hand Occupational Therapist & Director, AHPC A1300362Z.Last reviewed 2 October 2026.

Elbow dislocation is the second most common dislocation after shoulder dislocations among young adults in Singapore. It is also the most commonly dislocated joint in children. Both injuries are highly significant because they can cause subsequent damage and restrict one’s range of motion.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for a dislocated elbow is crucial for a successful outcome and recovery.

In this guide, we will discuss what elbow dislocation is, how it occurs, and explore diagnosis, treatment modalities, recovery times, prevention strategies, and essential exercises to aid in rehabilitation. We will dive deeper into the key aspects of managing and recovering from a dislocated elbow with the help of physiotherapy.

Elbow fracture and dislocation recovery program

Elbow Fracture and Dislocation Recovery Program

The elbow is usually stable within weeks. Getting it straight again is the part that takes the work.

For radial head and olecranon fractures, fractures at the lower end of the upper arm bone, and elbow dislocations, with or without surgery. A staged hand therapy program run to your surgeon’s plan, by the hand therapy team at five Singapore clinics.

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No referral needed to start. Bring your X-ray report, discharge summary or operation note.

Start here

Where are you right now?

An elbow injury is a different problem depending on the week you are reading this. Pick the one that matches.

I am in a sling or splint nowWhat to keep moving, what to leave alone, and the signs that mean go back to the doctor today. The sling is off and it will not straightenStiff, swollen, and the palm will not turn up. Most of that is expected. Here is what is not. It has been months and it is stuckThe X-ray is fine. The arm still stops short. This is the one people are told to live with. I need to know when I can driveDriving, typing, lifting, the gym, and what to tell your employer.

How the program runs

4-Stage Structured Recovery

You move up a stage when you meet the criteria for it, not when a number of weeks has passed. That is Criteria Before Clearance, and it is why the last appointment is a graduation rather than a discharge.

Stage 1

Calm & Protect

Settle pain and swelling. Protect the fracture, the repair or the ligaments. Keep the shoulder, wrist and fingers moving.

Runs throughout

Stage 2

Move & Mobilize

Bend, straighten, and turn the palm up and down, inside what your surgeon allows. Measured in degrees every visit.

Most people arrive here

Stage 3

Rebuild & Strengthen

Grip, forearm and shoulder strength. Carrying with the arm straight. Pushing up from a chair.

Stage 4

Return & Perform

The lifting your job needs, the gym, the racquet, the child you pick up. Tested rather than assumed.

The shape of it

What happens, week by week

The weeks below are the usual shape for a stable injury. Fracture-dislocations, fractures of the lower humerus, ligament repairs and older bone take longer. Your surgeon’s protocol takes precedence over anything on this page, every time.

• Weeks 0 to 1Stage 1 · Calm & ProtectSling or splint as your surgeon directs. Swelling and pain settled. The fingers, wrist and shoulder move from the first days, because a shoulder held still in a sling stiffens in its own right. For a stable dislocation or a small radial head fracture, many surgeons allow gentle elbow movement within the first week.
• Weeks 1 to 6Stage 2 · Move & MobilizeBending, straightening and forearm rotation, in the range your surgeon allows. After a ligament repair some positions stay protected for longer. Where a gained range keeps slipping back overnight, a custom splint can hold it while you sleep.
• Weeks 6 to 12Stage 3 · Rebuild & StrengthenOnce your surgeon allows load. Grip, forearm and shoulder strength, carrying, pushing up from a chair. Strength measured against the other arm.
• Week 12 onwardStage 4 · Return & PerformTested against what you need: the tools, the bag on the MRT, the push-up, the racquet. You graduate when you meet the Stage 4 criteria for those things.

After the sling comes off

Is this normal?

Usually expected

• An elbow that will not fully straighten or fully bend when the sling comes off.
• Bruising that tracks down the forearm toward the wrist in the first two weeks.
• Swelling that is worse in the evening and after use.
• Morning stiffness that eases with gentle movement.
• After a radial head fracture, turning the palm up feels blocked or achy.
• A weak grip, and a shoulder that aches from the sling.

Contact your doctor

• Call 995 or go to the emergency department now, do not drive yourself: forearm pain that keeps rising despite pain relief and elevation, especially pain when the fingers are gently straightened, or a hand that is pale, cold or blue.
• Emergency department now: the elbow slips out again, or you feel it clunk out of place.
• Doctor the same day: fever, or a surgical wound that is red, hot or leaking.
• Surgeon soon: numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers, or a hand that is getting clumsy. The ulnar nerve runs right behind the elbow.
• Surgeon soon: an elbow that was gaining range and then stops, getting harder and warmer, somewhere between weeks 3 and 8.
• Review soon: no change in range over 3 to 4 weeks of therapy.

We would rather send you back to your surgeon early than be the reason you went late.

What does not reverse on its own

Two things worth knowing early

The capsule stiffens fast. In a classic series of simple elbow dislocations, keeping the elbow still for more than three weeks was linked with more lasting stiffness and pain (Mehlhoff and colleagues, Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 1988). That is why surgeons move a stable elbow early, and why the protected weeks are working weeks for the rest of the arm.

Bone can form where it should not. After some elbow injuries, fracture-dislocations in particular, new bone forms in the soft tissue around the joint, which surgeons call heterotopic ossification. Once it has matured it does not dissolve with exercise, and where it blocks movement the remaining option is an operation to remove it. The sign is the one in the list above: an elbow that was improving, then stops and gets harder and warmer. Your surgeon can see it on an X-ray, and if that is what your elbow is doing, that X-ray is the right next step before more therapy.

If it is not going to plan

Three months on, and it still will not straighten

The fracture healed. The X-ray is fine. Someone told you the last bit of straightening often does not come back, and nobody has measured it since.

So you carry the bag with the other arm. You cannot rest your palm flat on the table and push up from a chair. Washing your face, the hand stops short of your forehead. The bowl of soup, held palm up, tips. None of it hurts much anymore, so it feels like the recovery is done.

Most everyday tasks sit inside an arc from about 30 to 130 degrees of bend, with about 50 degrees of forearm turn each way (Morrey and colleagues, Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 1981). Lose twenty degrees at either end of that and you feel it every day without being able to say why.

The first thing a stuck elbow needs is measurement: range in degrees against the other arm, grip in kilograms, and an honest read of what is still changing. The Stalled Recovery Review is three appointments, one a week for three weeks, with the same therapist. The first finds what is holding the joint. The next two measure how it responds, because a stiff joint’s answer takes weeks to read. $690, nett, no GST.

Tell us where it stopped

More on what the three appointments cover: the Stalled Recovery Review.

Logistics

When can I…

Your surgeon decides, based on healing and what your job demands. These are typical points, not permissions.

Activity	Typical point	What has to be true first
Desk work	1 to 2 weeks	Typing one-handed with the arm supported. Swelling controlled.
Typing, two hands	2 to 4 weeks	Your surgeon allows the elbow to move. Short spells first.
Driving	6 to 8 weeks	Full control of the wheel, including a sudden turn. Your surgeon agrees, and check your insurer.
Light lifting, a kettle, a bag	6 to 8 weeks	Your surgeon has cleared load, and Stage 3 has started.
Gym, push-ups, heavy lifting	3 months or later	Strength tested against the other arm.
Racquet and contact sport	3 to 4 months or later	Stage 4 criteria met and your surgeon’s clearance.
Medical certificate	Your doctor issues it	Hand therapists do not issue MCs. We can write a report on your functional limits for your doctor or employer.

The program

What it costs and what is in it

Elbow Fracture and Dislocation Recovery Program, Stages 1 to 4

$230

Per 45-minute appointment, nett, no GST. The Elbow Fracture and Dislocation Recovery Program is 12 appointments, $2,760 in all. You pay for each appointment as you attend it. If you need more, your therapist shows you which stage criteria are still open, and each extra appointment is $230.

• An Assessment & Treatment first, at $230: which stage you are in, what is limiting you, and a written plan you walk out holding
• Swelling, scar and wound care
• Staged movement and strength work, progressed on criteria
• A custom thermoplastic splint shaped during the appointment, where your surgeon approves one
• Range in degrees and grip in kilograms, measured every visit against the other arm
• A home program, written down
• A one-page report to your surgeon at weeks 2, 6 and 12 if you were referred
• Your next stage review dated into the diary, with the same therapist

Graduation, Not Discharge. The program ends when you meet the Stage 4 criteria for what you need to get back to.

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Who you will see

Managed by our hand therapy team

Elbow injuries sit with the hand therapy team, because the elbow, forearm and wrist work as one unit and the splinting is the same craft. All five of our hand therapists treat them, so you can start at the clinic nearest you. You stay with the same therapist through the program, and every appointment is one to one for the whole 45 minutes.

Mavis Tham

Principal Hand Occupational Therapist. Wrist fractures, TFCC and wrist ligament injuries, custom splinting.

Tanjong Pagar

Shamaine Soh

Principal Hand Occupational Therapist. Stiffness and scar tightness after hand or wrist surgery.

Orchard, Sundays

Yuna Zhuang

Principal Hand Occupational Therapist. Carpal and cubital tunnel, sports wrist and finger injuries, tennis elbow.

Orchard, Serangoon, Tampines

Nurul Nadzirah

Principal Hand Occupational Therapist. Finger and wrist fractures, De Quervain’s, wrist ligament injuries.

Orchard

Jasmine Ang

Principal Hand Occupational Therapist. Seven years of hospital outpatient hand therapy across hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder injuries, splinting and post-operative care.

Jurong East, from 25 October

This program runs Stages 1 to 4 of the Phoenix Recovery Protocol. It sits under hand therapy after surgery, alongside the other recovery programs and hand therapy more broadly.

Timings and appointment numbers on this page are typical ranges, not predictions for any individual recovery, and your surgeon’s protocol takes precedence. Hand therapists assess, splint, exercise, educate and refer; doctors diagnose, inject, prescribe and order imaging. If we find something that needs medical review we refer you back to your doctor.

What is Elbow Dislocation?

A dislocated elbow occurs when the bones of the elbow joint are forced out of their normal position. This can happen due to various reasons, including sports injuries, falls, or motor vehicle accidents. The elbow joint, which is a complex hinge joint formed by the humerus (upper arm bone), radius, and ulna (forearm bones), is one of the most commonly dislocated joints in the body.

Elbow dislocations fall into two main categories: simple and complex dislocations.

Simple Elbow Dislocation

Simple dislocations in the elbow joint are mainly injuries in the soft tissues and ligaments. This means there are no major injuries or fractures to the three bones in the elbow joint. Simple dislocation makes up over half of elbow dislocation cases. The ligament on the outer side, the lateral collateral ligament, is often the first to tear: see elbow LCL tear.

Complex Elbow Dislocation

A complex dislocation in the elbow severe injury or fracture to the bones and ligaments, particularly in these areas:

• radial head
• coronoid process
• olecranon
• humeral condyles
• capitellum
• epicondyles

These fractures can also damage the medial collateral ligament, further complicating the injury. This ligament plays a crucial role in stabilizing the elbow, and its disruption can significantly impact the joint’s function and stability.

Simple elbow dislocations or complex, it’s important to seek medical attention when faced with these injuries.

What Causes Elbow Dislocations?

Elbow dislocations are relatively common injuries in the elbow that vary in severity. They can be caused by various factors, including:

Sports Injuries

Contact sports like football, rugby, and hockey frequently lead to elbow dislocations. The high-impact nature of these sports often puts athletes at risk for such injuries.

Falls or Trips

Most elbow dislocations occur when an individual falls onto an outstretched hand or when you catch yourself with an outstretched arm. This instinctive reaction can cause the upper arm bone to dislocate from the elbow joint. Falls are particularly common among older adults due to a higher risk of slips and trips.

Motor Vehicle Accident

Car accidents often cause dislocated elbows, especially when individuals instinctively reach out to brace themselves. The force of the collision can easily displace the bones of the elbow joint.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Similar Conditions

Rheumatoid arthritis weakens the connective tissues around the elbow, increasing the risk of dislocation. Other conditions that affect joint stability can similarly predispose individuals to this injury.

Dislocated Elbow Diagnosis

Diagnosing an elbow dislocation typically involves a physical examination by an orthopedic doctor or a treating physiotherapist. They will assess the range of motion, joint stability, and look for signs of nerve damage or other complications. They may perform imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any fractures or other injuries.

What are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of an elbow dislocation can vary depending on the severity of the elbow injury, but common signs include the following:

• Severe pain in the elbow
• Swelling and bruising around the joint
• Difficulty moving the elbow or performing everyday tasks
• Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand

Elbow Joint Treatment

The treatment for an elbow dislocation usually involves a combination of conservative management and physical therapy. Phoenix Rehab tailors treatment plans for injuries that affect bones and joints.

Prolonged immobilization often leads to stiffness in the elbow joint, requiring longer recovery and additional therapy. During the assessment, your physical therapist will evaluate your current range of motion and prescribe exercises to help you regain mobility and function. Early mobilization is a priority at this point of treatment.

Conservative management may include the following exercises and procedures:

• Immobilizing the elbow in a splint or cast to allow the joint and surrounding connective tissues to heal
• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication are a decision for your doctor or pharmacist.
• Gentle exercises to maintain range of motion and prevent stiffness
• Flexibility and strengthening exercises
• Manual therapy, massage therapy, and pain relief

For sports-related elbow injuries, your physical therapist will design a sport-specific rehabilitation plan to get you back in the game.

Physical therapy is crucial for recovering from an elbow dislocation. Even while the elbow is in a sling, a physical therapist will guide you through gentle exercises and management.

Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication are a decision for your doctor or pharmacist.

In some cases, surgical treatment may be necessary, especially for complex dislocations or those with nerve damage.

How Long to Recover from a Dislocated Elbow?

The recovery time for an elbow dislocation can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the effectiveness of treatment. Generally, it can take several weeks to several months for the joint to fully heal and regain its normal function.

Even if your elbow dislocation is repaired through manipulation, joint reduction, or surgery, physical therapy is vital for complete recovery. The goal of physical therapy is to fully rebuild strength and range of motion before and after major treatments.

Common long-term effects of a dislocated elbow include a reduced range of movement, particularly in extension, and an increased likelihood of future dislocations or elbow sprain.

In cases of recurrent elbow dislocation, surgery may be necessary to enhance stability. This is typically followed by an extensive rehabilitation program lasting several months.

How to Prevent Recurrence of Elbow Dislocation?

Preventing elbow dislocations involves taking steps to reduce the risk of injury, such as:

• Wearing protective gear during sports
• Avoiding falls by being mindful of the surroundings
• Maintaining good joint flexibility and strength through regular exercise
• Using proper techniques and equipment during physical activities
• Addressing any joint instability or weakness promptly with medical advice

Elbow Joint Exercises

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process after an elbow dislocation. A treating physiotherapist will design a customized exercise program to relieve pain and reduce stiffness, improve range of motion and joint stability, and strengthen the surrounding muscles to prevent future injuries.

Some common exercises used include:

• Elbow flexion and extension active ROM exercises
• Strengthening exercises for the forearm and upper arm muscles
• Overhead motion protocol to improve joint mobility and strength
• Gentle AROM and PROM exercises targeting the upper limb
• Progressive resistance exercises
• Full ROM and strength in the later stage of rehabilitation

By following a comprehensive treatment plan that includes physiotherapy, individuals can achieve optimal outcomes and regain full function in their elbow joints.

Dealing with elbow pain involves more than just addressing fractures. To assist you further, we’ve developed detailed guides on physiotherapy for tennis elbow pain, physiotherapy for golfers elbow, and physiotherapy for fractured elbow. Explore our resources to gain a deeper understanding and effective management strategies for these conditions.

  
 
 
 
  
 
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Amazing experience with Phoenix Rehab, was assisted by Mavis. She’s very kind and professional and did thorough check on my wrist. I feel very comfortable during the process.

I went in for thermoplastic splint, and everything went smoothly. She was able to address my needs on my left wrist sprain.

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Fist time doing ultrasound for my tennis elbow!! Let’s hope it gets better the next few weeks!! Thank Mavis Tham!!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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Great treatment from my therapist. My painful wrist felt a lot of relief after the session. I’m glad I can slowly get back to doing my usual activities without constant pain.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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I wasn’t able to close my fingers due to an injury. Nurul at Phoenix Rehab has helped me tremendously with my recovery process. I have been able to resume my daily activities and exercises after only a few sessions. Nurul has been very professional and positive throughout the entire process. Thank you so much for your help!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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Huge shoutout to Yuna Zhang from Phoenix Rehab for helping in my recovery from golfer’s elbow 🙌

I walked in with persistent elbow pain that was affecting workouts and everyday tasks, and Yuna immediately made me feel confident I was in the right hands. She took the time to properly assess my condition, explain the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan to my specific needs instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach.

What I really appreciated was how personalised every session felt. The exercises she gave me were practical, easy to follow, and actually worked. Within a short time, the pain reduced significantly and my strength and mobility improved much faster than I expected.

On top of that, the pricing is very reasonable and affordable, which made committing to recovery much easier.

Professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring — highly recommend Yuna at Phoenix Rehab if you’re dealing with hand-related sports injuries 💪
  
 
 
 
 
 
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I enjoy coming to Phoenix rehab as they offer a wide variety of services. I had a finger accident and was working with a very experienced hand therapist. Place is clean and comfortable.  Staff were friendly and appointment was on time
  
 
 
 
 
 
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