The most common bone dislocation type in children and adults is elbow dislocation. It is believed to be the second most common dislocation after that of the shoulder. You must understand the bones of your arm to understand the concept of dislocation. Your arm has three bones namely the radius, ulna, and humerus. Radius and ulna are the two bones of your forearm; when these bones go away from the alignment with the arm bone called the humerus, then it is called elbow dislocation.
The serious types of injuries that accompany elbow dislocation include fractures, injuries to the arteries of the arm, injuries of the nerves that run through the elbow region, impaired arm movements. Etc.
Your doctor will begin the examination
After going home, you must not move your elbow and always wear the splint. Make sure your elbow is in an elevated position to reduce the swelling.
The common symptoms of elbow dislocation include severe elbow pain, swelling, inability to bend the arm.
In severe cases, you may feel that you have lost the sensation and no longer feel the pulse. It may be due to the injury to the nerves and arteries that run through the elbow joint.
If your elbow joint pain is unbearable and if you feel troublesome to move the joint near the elbow or if you cannot feel your hand, or do not feel the pulse near the injured area then, you must seek medical attention immediately.
The most common causes of an elbow dislocation in adults include:
In toddlers, the injury occurs at the time of extra pulling motion; such causes include:
At home, you must apply an ice pack. This initial remedy reduces the swelling and further pain. But the next step to take immediately is to go to a doctor.
Your doctor would prescribe a heavy dose of painkillers to reduce the pain caused while repositioning your elbow.
After placing your elbow in its position, your doctor will get an X-ray and then provide a splint; this is a cast made of plaster of Paris and is applied to keep your elbow devoid of any movements, which ensures a good rest for your elbow.
Your doctor would recommend surgery if:
Physiotherapy and appropriate rehabilitation for elbow dislocation are beneficial, but you must first talk to your doctor before choosing them. Your physical advisor would then advise you on certain exercises to improve your range of motion. You will be asked to avoid the activities that aggravate the pain near the elbow.
Elbow Dislocation- Your arm has three bones namely the radius, ulna, and humerus. Radius and ulna are the two bones of your forearm; when these bones go away from the alignment with the arm bone called the humerus.
