Old fracture hurts when sick

[wilkerson04]

About 6 years ago, my then 12 year old daughter broke the same arm twice in the same year (it wasn’t set properly the first time). She’s now 18 and we’ve noticed the last few times she’s been sick either with the flu or colds, her arm aches very badly. It’s so bad that she can’t even hold a drink with that hand. She said the pain she’s currently experiencing is the worst it’s ever been (besides when she broke it). It eventually goes away but why would this happen? Her arm is not warm to the touch but it does look like it might be slightly swollen. I’ve asked her doctor but she brushes it off.

[backhurtz]

Has she seen an orthopedist? If it continues I would have her see one just to ensure there isn't a problem where the old fracture didn't heal properly.