A sprain happens when a ligament stretches or tears. Ligaments are stretchy bands that connect bones to each other. An elbow sprain usually happens when a child falls on an outstretched arm, or when the elbow gets twisted or pulled.

A sprain can be mild or severe. It can take a few days, weeks, or longer to feel better. Follow these instructions to help your child as the sprain heals.

• For 2–3 days, to help with pain and swelling:
  • Have your child rest the elbow and avoid any activities that cause pain.
  • Place ice wrapped in a towel on the sprain for about 20 minutes several times a day. Do not put ice directly on the skin.
  • Wrap the elbow in an elastic bandage. The bandage should be tight enough to provide gentle support but loose enough that you can easily fit your finger under the edge.
  • Keep the elbow above heart level by resting it on a pillow.
• Follow your health care provider's advice for:
  • Giving your child acetaminophen (Tylenol^® or a store brand) or ibuprofen (Advil^®, Motrin^®, or a store brand) as needed for pain. Follow the directions on the label for how much to give and how often.
  • Using a splint or brace to protect the elbow.
  • Any movement exercises or stretches your child should do and any activities to avoid.
  • When it's OK to try a heating pad and massage (usually after the swelling goes down).
  • Whether your child should go to a bone doctor (orthopedist), sports medicine doctor, or physical therapist to help them build strength and flexibility and create a plan for returning to full activities and sports.
  • When your child should follow up.
• Adding activities:
  • If your health care provider says it's OK, your child can gradually increase activities after about 2–3 days of rest. At first, they can try stretching and activities like swimming or a stationary bike that has arm movement. If they have no pain, they can continue to add more activities and training.
  • If your child has increased pain or swelling, they have probably tried to do too much. They should stop the activity they're doing and take a rest or switch to a less intense activity.
  • Talk to your health care provider if you're not sure which activities your child should do.

• The pain or swelling gets worse.
• After a week of following your health care provider's instructions, your child:
  • has pain or swelling that isn't getting better
  • can't fully move, straighten, or bend the elbow

How are elbow sprains diagnosed? Health care providers ask questions and examine the injured elbow. A sprained elbow might be swollen, painful, stiff, or sore. The skin around the elbow might look red or bruised. Sometimes they order X-rays to make sure there is no broken bone.

What can help prevent elbow sprains? To prevent injuries to the elbow, encourage your child to:

• Wear the right protective gear during practice and competition (such as elbow pads).
• Warm up before sports activities.
• Do regular strengthening and flexibility exercises.
• Be active year-round, which will help their elbows and the rest of their body stay in good shape.