Elbow Dislocation Overview
In spite of the elbow being a very stable joint, elbow dislocation is still very common. Elbow dislocation occurs when the bones of the forearm (the radius and ulna) move out of place compared with the bone of the upper arm (the humerus). The elbow joint, formed where these 3 bones meet, becomes dislocated, or out of joint. Specific, serious injuries that may occur are fractures (breaking of the bones in the arm), injuries to the arteries in the arm (the vessels carrying blood to the hand), and injuries to the nerves that run through the elbow area, impairing movement and feeling in the arm and hand.
Elbow Dislocation Causes
Elbow dislocation causes is usually a fall, most commonly with the arm all the way out. However, any traumatic injury (such as a car crash) can result in an elbow dislocation. When the hand hits the ground, the force is sent to the elbow. Usually, there is a turning motion in this force. This can drive and rotate the elbow out of its socket. Elbow dislocations can also happen in car accidents when the passengers reach forward to cushion the impact. The force that is sent through the arm can dislocate the elbow, just as in a fall.
Elbow Dislocation Symptoms
- Elbow dislocation severe pain in the elbow, swelling, and inability to bend your arm are all signs of an elbow dislocation.
- In some cases, you may lose feeling in your hand or no longer have a pulse (can't feel your heartbeat in your wrist).
- Arteries and nerves run by your elbow, so it is possible you might have injured them during the dislocation.
Elbow Dislocation Treatment
Elbow dislocation should be considered an emergency injury. The goal of immediate treatment of a dislocated elbow is to return the elbow to its normal alignment. The long- term goal is to restore function to the arm. Simple elbow dislocation are treated by keeping the elbow immobile in a splint or sling for two to three weeks, followed by early motion exercises. In a complex elbow dislocation, surgery may be necessary to restore bone alignment and repair ligaments.
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