PULLED ELBOW
Pulled elbow occurs when one of the forearm bones (the radius) slips through a ligament at the elbow. A ligament holds the bones in place. When a child's arm is suddenly pulled, twisted or jerked this causes the ligament to stretch and the radius to slip out of place.
It is also called nursemaid's elbow or subluxation of the radial head.
Pulled elbow is common in young children. It normally occurs between the ages of six months and five years.
After a sudden pull or twist to the arm, the child will usually cry out in pain.
Your child may hold their arm hanging limply at their side. They may not use their arm at all.
Your child will not usually need an X-ray. Orthopedic surgeon will move the arm and slip the bone and ligament back into place. This causes some pain for the child, but it is usually a very quick procedure.
Your child will usually start to use their arm within 15 minutes after this procedure. They may be hesitant at first. If the injury has been present for many hours it may take a bit longer for them to use their arm normally.
Sometimes the bone will move back into place when you move your child's arm by accident, such as when taking off a shirt or sweater. Do not try to move the bone back into place on your own.
