Update on Chad

We have seen an orthopedic surgeon, here is what we learned. Chad broke his Radial Head of the elbow.

Definition: A radial head fracture is most commonly caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand. Radial head fractures cause pain and swelling around the elbow.

Why is the radial head important?
The radial head is shaped like a round disc and is important in motion of the elbow. The radial head moves both in flexion and extension (bending) of the elbow joint, as well as rotation of the forearm. Therefore, injury to the radial head can affect all movements of the elbow.

What is the treatment?
For now the Dr. has given Chad some exercises that he needs to do every hour. The exercises include straightening his elbow and rotating the wrist. Everyday he can get it straighter and rotate it further.
Chad goes back to the Dr. on Wed, the 23rd. They will do more X-rays and decide if his exercises are doing well or if they are not as far along as the Dr. wanted they will have to do a surgery to fix it. They have told us the worst recovery with out the surgery is better than the best recovery with the surgery. They have also told us that he will never get full range of motion back on his arm or be able to rotate his wrist all the way.
Chad is still out of work. The Dr. doesn't want him to go back until after the reevaluation. I dont think Chad could get his hand to face downward to type anyway. Any way we are really hoping that they do not have to do the surgery, hoping his exercises will be good enough.

On the other arm he chipped his wrist. But because of the location of the chip it also did not need to be casted. He wears a brace sometimes on it though. It is still very tender but healing quickly.

Gracie's arm is still broken...

We have settled pretty good in our new house. We love it! When Chad does go back to work it is so much closer. It will be nice.