Elbow Dislocation

Elbow dislocation is a rare elbow injury that occurs when the humerus (lower part of the arm bone) and radius & ulna (upper end of the forearm) bones are separated. It can be partial or complete. In a complete dislocation, the surfaces of the joint are entirely separated while in partial dislocation (also called subluxation), the joint surfaces are attached partially. A dislocated elbow is also related to ligament injuries, fractures, and damage to nerves and blood vessels.

Typically, elbow dislocation can be a result of a fall on an outstretched arm and is most common in children.

Causes

• Sudden joint twist
• Falling on an outstretched arm
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Pulling an arm with a jerk (in case of children)

Symptoms

• Visible deformity
• Unbearable pain
• Inability to move the elbow
• Tingling and numbness (Nerve injury)
• Negligible or absent distal pulse (Vascular injury)
• Swelling and bruising

Diagnosis

As soon as you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you must visit an orthopedic specialist. He will try moving the elbow to understand the severity of the injury. The doctor will carry out some medical examinations and imaging tests for diagnosis, such as:

• CT Scan
• MRI
• X-Rays

Treatment

Some dislocated elbows get healed on their own by returning to the original position. For severe cases, you need to go to the doctor to position the dislocated elbow, and the treatment is determined based on the severity of your condition.

Non-surgical Treatments

Your orthopedic specialist will advise complete rest and ask to apply ice and keep the affected elbow elevated to reduce pain. Some non-surgical methods to treat a dislocated elbow include:

Medication: Over-the-counter pain killers to control the pain.

Manipulation: The bone specialist moves the bone gently to return it to the original position. The process is called joint reduction.

Physical therapy: You should od simple strengthening exercises for your tendons and muscles, so it provides support during the healing process.

Rest: The joint must be kept immobile after joint reduction. The doctor may recommend using a sling to keep the elbow in place.

Surgical Treatments

Mostly the problem of a dislocated elbow can be treated without surgery, but your orthopedist may suggest it, in cases like:

• Manipulation is not enough to bring the dislocated bones back to position.
• The nerve or blood vessels are damaged by elbow dislocation.
• The muscles or tendons need repair.