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| Definition: |
A partial dislocation of the elbow resulting in decreased movement.
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| Alternative Names: |
Pulled elbow; Dislocated elbow - children
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
| Nursemaid's elbow is a common condition in young children (generally under 5 years of age) that results when the arm is pulled by the hand or wrist. It is often seen after a parent lifts a child by one arm up a curb or high step. The child generally begins to cry immediately and refuses to use the arm. The arm is held in a slightly flexed position (slightly bent at the elbow) and the forearm held against the abdomen. The child will move the shoulder, but not the elbow. |
| Symptoms: |
- immediate crying
- elbow pain
- refusal to use the affected arm
- slight flexion of elbow
- forearm rests lightly against abdomen
- child will move arm at shoulder
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| Signs and tests: |
| The child will be unable to supinate the hand (rotate the arm at the elbow so that the palm is up). |
| Treatment: |
| The dislocation is reduced by rotating the forearm so that the palm is up and gently flexing the elbow all the way. Note: THIS MUST BE DONE BY THE HEALTH CARE PROVIDER! |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| If a nursemaid's elbow remains unreduced, it may result in permanent inability to fully extend the elbow. |
| Complications: |
- permanent limitation of motion
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| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call your health care provider if you suspect your child has a dislocated elbow or refuses to use an arm. |
| Prevention: |
| Avoid lifting a child by one arm only (from the wrist or hand). Lift under the arm, from the upper arm, or both arms at a time. |
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Review Date: 8/11/2001
Reviewed By: David M. Scher, M.D., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, NYU-Hospital for Joint Diseases, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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