Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons treating a Dislocated Elbow

DISLOCATED ELBOW

Elbow dislocation occurs when the the elbow bones move out of their correct positions where they meet at the elbow joint.

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Dislocated Elbow

A dislocated elbow refers to a severe injury that occurs when the bones of the forearm become separated from the upper arm bone at the elbow joint. This injury usually occurs as the result of a traumatic incident, such as a fall or a direct impact on the elbow. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and expected rehabilitation time is essential for managing this injury effectively.

Dislocated Elbow Description

The elbow joint refers to a complex hinge joint that connects the bones of the forearm to the upper arm bone. The elbow joint contains three bones: the humerus, the radius, and the ulna. A dislocated elbow occurs when one or both of the forearm bones become separated at the elbow joint. Doctors consider a dislocated elbow as a serious injury that can cause significant pain and discomfort. This injury can also result in significant damage to the surrounding ligaments, tendons, and nerves.

Cause

A dislocated elbow occurs because of a traumatic incident, such as a fall or a blow to the elbow. This injury can occur during sports activities, such as football, hockey, or gymnastics, or during everyday activities.  For instance, a fall from a bike or a ladder. Individuals who participate in high-risk activities or have a history of elbow dislocation may incur an increased risk. Certain medical conditions, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, can also increase the risk of a dislocated elbow.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a dislocated elbow can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and bruising around the elbow joint. The elbow may also appear deformed or out of place.  Individuals with a dislocated elbow may have difficulty moving their arm or may experience a decreased range of motion. The injured arm may also feel numb or tingly, and the individual may experience weakness or a loss of grip strength.

 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

What is a dislocated elbow in children, and how does it occur?

A dislocated elbow in children refers to the displacement of the bones that make up the elbow joint, typically the radius and ulna (forearm bones) in relation to the humerus (upper arm bone). This often happens due to a sudden and forceful pull or twist on the arm, often during a fall or direct impact. In children, the ligaments supporting the elbow joint are relatively loose, making them more prone to dislocations.

What are the common symptoms of a dislocated elbow in children?

Children with a dislocated elbow may experience severe pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected arm. The arm may appear deformed or bent in an abnormal way at the elbow. They may be unwilling or unable to move the arm due to the pain and discomfort. Numbness or tingling sensations may also be present if nerves around the elbow are affected..

How do doctors diagnose and treat a dislocated elbow in children?

Diagnosis involves a physical examination and often an X-ray to confirm the dislocation and assess any associated fractures or injuries. Treatment usually involves relocating the dislocated elbow back into its normal position, a procedure known as reduction. This is typically done by a healthcare professional, often in an emergency room or orthopedic setting, using specific maneuvers to realign the bones. After reduction, the arm is usually immobilized using a splint or cast for a period to allow healing and prevent re-dislocation. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are often recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the elbow.

If your son or daughter is suffering with elbow problems, make an appointment with us

Dislocated Elbow Diagnosis

Diagnosing a dislocated elbow typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests. During a physical exam, the doctor will assess the individual’s range of motion, strength, and reflexes. The doctor may also manipulate the elbow to determine if the bones are out of place. Doctors may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to provide a detailed look at the elbow joint.  These scans will confirm the diagnosis of a dislocated elbow.

Treatment

The treatment of a dislocated elbow typically involves reducing the dislocation and stabilizing the joint. Doctors perform this procedure through either closed or open reduction. Closed reduction involves manipulating the bones back into place without surgery. The individual will be given medication to manage the pain.  In addition, these patients will have their arms immobilized with a cast or brace for several weeks to allow the joint to heal.

Doctors will conduct open reduction if necessary in more severe cases. However, if the doctor cannot realign the bones through closed reduction. This procedure involves surgery to manipulate the bones back into place and stabilize the joint with screws or pins. Following either closed or open reduction, the individual will need to undergo rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the affected arm. Rehabilitation may involve physical therapy, exercises, and stretching to improve the range of motion and strength.

Time to Rehabilitate

The rehabilitation time for a dislocated elbow can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment received. In cases where closed reduction joins the bones together successfully, the rehabilitation time may shorten, typically requiring several weeks or months of rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility.

In more severe cases where open reduction must happen, the rehabilitation time may require several months of rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility. Doctors will recommend rehabilitation may to address any lingering pain or discomfort in the elbow joint.

Conclusion

A dislocated elbow is a severe injury that requires prompt medical attention to ensure proper healing and rehabilitation. Understanding the causes and symptoms and being able to properly diagnose the condition will lead doctors to treat the condition and begin the healing.

Conclusion of Dislocated Elbow

Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists surgeons are rated and board-certified professionals in elbow treatment. In addition, they have studied and trained in the treatment of elbow conditions in children and adolescents.

Finally, the orthopedic doctors at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists with offices in Arlington, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco, and McKinney, TX treat children with basic to complicated elbow disorders, including persistent ankle instability. Consequently, using the latest in surgery techniques, our surgeons treat dislocated elbows on a routine basis with outcomes that allow the kids to enjoy being kids again.

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Footnote:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Dislocated elbow

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