Overview
An ulna fracture is a break in the ulna, one of the two forearm bones, most often near the elbow (such as the olecranon) but it can also occur along the shaft or closer to the wrist. When the bone breaks, nearby tissues may become irritated and swollen, which can make it painful to move the elbow or rotate the forearm. Healing usually requires stabilizing the fracture so the bone can rejoin in the correct position. If the fracture shifts significantly or affects joint alignment, additional care may be needed to protect long-term function.
Symptoms
Pain is usually felt at the elbow or along the inner forearm and often worsens with bending, straightening, or twisting the forearm. You may notice swelling, bruising, tenderness over the bone, and reduced range of motion due to discomfort and stiffness. Some people feel a grinding or unstable sensation, and severe injuries can cause numbness or tingling if nearby nerves are irritated. In more significant fractures, the arm may feel weak or less able to grip or lift objects.
Causes
Ulna fractures most commonly result from a direct impact, such as a fall onto an outstretched arm or a blow to the elbow/forearm. Twisting injuries and high-force trauma, including sports collisions or motor vehicle crashes, can also fracture the ulna. In some cases, weakened bone from osteoporosis or other conditions can lead to fractures from minor falls.
Risk Factors
Risk increases with falls risk factors such as poor balance, uneven ground, impaired vision, or alcohol use. Participating in contact sports, roller sports, or activities with a higher chance of falls can raise the likelihood of injury. Older age and conditions that weaken bone, such as osteoporosis, also make fractures more likely even with lower-impact trauma.
Prevention
To reduce risk, focus on fall prevention with good lighting, removing tripping hazards, and using appropriate footwear. Strengthening the arms and improving balance can help protect against falls, especially for older adults. Wearing protective gear for higher-risk sports and using safe techniques for falls (when appropriate) can lower the chance of forearm injuries. Ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake and managing osteoporosis with your clinician can reduce fracture risk.
How the Diagnosis Is Evaluated
Clinicians typically start with a history of how the injury happened and a focused exam of pain location, swelling, bruising, and deformity. They check elbow and forearm motion within pain limits and assess circulation and sensation to ensure nerves and blood flow are not compromised. X-rays are usually the main test to confirm the fracture and determine whether it is displaced or involves a joint surface. In some cases, CT or repeat imaging may be used when the fracture pattern is complex or if x-rays don't clearly show alignment.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Nonsurgical care usually aims to immobilize the ulna so the bone can heal while minimizing stiffness and protecting function. Treatment often includes a splint or cast, with follow-up visits and x-rays to confirm the fracture remains stable while swelling decreases. Pain control may include oral anti-inflammatory medications or acetaminophen, along with ice, elevation, and activity modification. After the fracture begins to heal, a structured physical therapy program typically helps restore range of motion, strength, and forearm rotation. If movement is restricted early on, gradual guided motion is used to reduce long-term stiffness.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek urgent medical evaluation if you have severe pain after an injury, visible deformity, rapidly increasing swelling, or you cannot move the elbow or forearm normally. Go to emergency care right away if you notice numbness or tingling, worsening weakness, pale or cold fingers, or signs of poor circulation. Prompt evaluation is also important for fever, spreading redness, or uncontrolled pain, and for any sudden loss of function after an initial diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many ulna fractures heal well with immobilization in a splint or cast, especially when the bone is stable and alignment is acceptable.
Stiffness is common after immobilization, and physical therapy or guided exercises often help you regain motion.
Next Steps
If you suspect an ulna fracture, arrange prompt evaluation so you can get x-rays and proper immobilization if needed. Follow your clinician's activity and motion instructions, and keep scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing and alignment. If pain worsens, swelling increases, or you develop numbness, weakness, or circulation changes, seek care right away.