Therapeutic options for acute and chronic elbow instability

Acute elbow instability usually develops after injuries involving the bony or ligamentous stabilizers of the joint. It occurs frequently after dislocation and/or fracture-dislocation, but isolated valgus or varus overloading can also lead to ligament ruptures with subsequent instability. Chronic instability can result from incompletely healed acute injuries or from recurring microtrauma, for example after repetitive strain from participating in certain sports.

Stable conditions of the joint are essential for early functional post-traumatic or postoperative treatment of the elbow, as permanent mobility deficits may result otherwise. The following article gives an overview of the current understanding of these injuries and concepts in treatment.