Elbow Dislocation
What is an Elbow Dislocation?
The elbow works like a hinge and is made up of three bones that let your arm bend and straighten. The humerus is the bone in your upper arm, running from your shoulder to your elbow. The two bones in your forearm, called the radius and ulna, connect your wrist to your elbow.
Ligaments connect these bones and help maintain joint stability. Muscles and tendons move the elbow and support your daily activities. An elbow dislocation happens when the bones are forced out of place, causing misalignment of the joint.
Causes of Elbow Dislocation
Most elbow dislocations happen when you fall and land on your outstretched hand. The force from the fall can push the elbow bones out of place. This injury can also be caused by a direct hit, like in a car accident or a hard blow to the arm.
Symptoms of Elbow Dislocation
A dislocated elbow often causes a lot of pain and noticeable swelling around the joint. You might find it hard to bend or straighten your arm. Sometimes, your hand may feel numb or you might not feel a pulse at your wrist. These symptoms can mean the nerves or blood vessels near your elbow are affected.
Diagnosis of Elbow Dislocation
To find out if your elbow is dislocated, your doctor will look at your arm and check how well blood is reaching your hand. They will feel a pulse at your wrist and see if your nerves are working properly. X-rays help confirm the dislocation and show if any bones are broken. If there might be blood vessel damage, your doctor may order an arteriogram to check the artery.
Treatment Options for Elbow Dislocation
A dislocated elbow is a serious injury and needs quick medical attention. Getting treated right away can ease pain, put the joint back in place, and help prevent long-term problems.
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Things You Can Do at Home When You Have an Elbow Dislocation
If your elbow is dislocated, applying ice can help reduce pain and swelling. You can also do some easy checks at home to see how your blood flow and nerves are doing. To check blood flow, gently press at the base of your wrist to feel for a pulse. When you press on the skin, it should turn pale for a moment and then return to its normal color in a few seconds.
To check your nerves, try lifting your wrist, spreading your fingers, and touching your thumb to your little finger. Watch for any numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand or arm. If you notice anything unusual, call your doctor right away.
What Your Doctor Does to Treat an Elbow Dislocation
To treat a dislocated elbow, your doctor will gently move the joint back into place. This is called a reduction and means using careful pressure to line up the bones. Since this can hurt, your doctor may administer pain-relief medication first.
Once your elbow is back in place, your arm might be put in a splint to keep it steady while it heals. After some rest, your doctor may suggest gentle exercises to help you move your elbow and get your strength back.
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