What to Expect During Elbow Dislocation Treatment For Your Child?
Prompt medical attention, proper reduction, immobilization, physical therapy, and close monitoring are essential components of the treatment plan for your child’s elbow dislocation. By following the recommended treatment and rehabilitation protocols, you can expect your child to regain full function of their elbow joint and return to their normal activities. At POBAR, we offer treatment for your child to reach full recovery. Call Today!
Dealing with your child’s elbow dislocation can be a stressful experience for both you and your child. To alleviate anxiety and promote a smoother recovery journey, it helps to understand what to expect from the treatment process.
In this blog post, we will explore the common questions surrounding elbow dislocation treatment in children, including the initial steps, recovery timeline, potential complications, and basic treatment approaches.
What Is An Elbow Dislocation?
The elbow joint is particularly susceptible to dislocation because it is a hinge joint with a wide range of motion. There are several different types of elbow dislocations that can affect children. Here are three common types:
Simple Elbow Dislocation:
This type of dislocation occurs when the bones of the forearm (radius and ulna) are displaced from the humerus (upper arm bone) but do not cause any additional fractures or complications. It is the most common type of elbow dislocation in children.Complex Elbow Dislocation
A complex elbow dislocation involves not only the displacement of the forearm bones from the humerus but also additional injuries such as fractures, ligament tears, or nerve damage. Complex dislocations are more severe and require careful evaluation and treatment.Nursemaid's Elbow (Radial Head Subluxation)
Nursemaid's elbow is a partial dislocation that often occurs in children under the age of 5. It happens when the radius bone slips out of its normal position at the elbow joint, usually when the child's arm is pulled or jerked.
It is important to note that any elbow dislocation in children should be evaluated and treated by a medical professional. Contact experienced orthopedic pediatricians at POBAR today!
How Do You Know If Your Child's Elbow Is Dislocated?
The first sign that your child’s elbow is dislocated will be severe pain. Your child may also experiences the following:
swelling of the area surrounding the elbow
deformity of the arm, or
an inability to move their elbow after a fall or trauma.
It is imperative that you seek immediate medical attention for your child. This is crucial for your child to get an accurate diagnosis and for appropriate treatment to be given.
What Causes Elbow Dislocations in Children?
Elbow dislocations in children are typically caused by traumatic incidents that put excessive force on the joint. Here are some common causes of elbow dislocations in children:
Falls: Falling onto an outstretched hand or directly onto the elbow can result in a dislocation. This can happen during activities such as running, playing sports or riding a bicycle.
Sports Injuries: Participation in contact sports or activities that involve sudden twisting or impact on the arm, such as football, basketball, gymnastics, or skateboarding, can lead to elbow dislocations in children.
Pulling or Jerking of the Arm: A sudden pulling or jerking motion of the arm, often seen in young children, can cause an elbow dislocation. This can occur when a caregiver or parent forcefully pulls a child's arm or hand.
Motor Vehicle Accidents: Severe trauma, such as a motor vehicle collision, can result in significant force being applied to the elbow joint, leading to dislocation.
Children's bones are still developing and are therefore more susceptible to injuries like elbow dislocations. Additionally, children's ligaments and joint structures are more flexible, which can contribute to a higher risk of dislocation.
Prompt medical attention should be sought if an elbow dislocation is suspected, as proper evaluation and treatment are crucial for optimal recovery and to minimize the risk of complications.
How Do You Treat a Dislocated Elbow in a Child?
Treating a dislocated elbow in a child typically involves a pediatric orthopedic specialist. At POBAR, the orthopedic specialist will carefully evaluate the injury through a physical examination and diagnostic tests like X-rays or MRI scans.
The next step the specialist will take in treating your child’s elbow dislocation is to perform a reduction. It is usually performed under sedation or anesthesia to ensure the child's comfort and cooperation. The healthcare provider will proceed with one of the following treatment approaches:
Closed Reduction
This procedure involves manually manipulating the bones back into their correct position. It is usually performed under sedation or anesthesia to ensure the child's comfort and cooperation. The medical professional will apply gentle pressure to realign the joint properly.
Open Reduction
In some cases, if the dislocation is severe or closed reduction is unsuccessful, surgery may be required. During an open reduction, the surgeon makes an incision to access the joint and reposition the bones accurately. This approach is less common but may be necessary in complex cases.
With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, a dislocated elbow in children has a good prognosis for a full recovery. The healing process may take time, and close monitoring by the healthcare provider is essential.
Following the recommended treatment plan and adhering to physical therapy exercises will help restore strength and range of motion to the elbow joint. While some cases may experience residual symptoms or stiffness, most children can regain normal function and return to their regular activities.
What To Expect After The Treatment Of Elbow Dislocation?
After the reduction procedure, the child's arm may be immobilized using a splint or a cast to provide support and protect the joint during the initial healing phase. Pain management techniques, such as over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications, may be recommended.
What Is The Most Common Complication After Elbow Dislocation?
The most common complication after an elbow dislocation is stiffness or limited range of motion. But regular physical therapy sessions, which may include stretching exercises, strengthening exercises, and manual therapy techniques, can help overcome this complication and regain full mobility of the elbow joint.
How Long Does A Dislocated Elbow Take To Heal?
The healing time for a dislocated elbow varies depending on the severity of the injury and individual factors. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months for the bones, ligaments, and soft tissues to heal completely. Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider will ensure proper monitoring of the healing progress.
The healthcare provider will also prescribe a rehabilitation program tailored to the child's needs to restore joint function gradually. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process. The child will gradually start gentle exercises to restore mobility, strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint, and improve flexibility.
The physical therapist will guide the child through a customized rehabilitation program, monitoring progress and adjusting the exercises as needed. The duration of physical therapy will vary based on the specific needs of the child and their response to treatment.
For A Detailed Treatment Plan For Your Child’s Elbow Dislocation, Speak to Our Leading Pediatric Orthopedic Doctors in Brandon and Tampa, Florida.
We’re a friendly pediatric team based in Brandon and Tampa, Florida, and we’re pros at dealing with elbow dislocations. If your child has a dislocation and needs to see a medical professional, get in touch with us.
At POBAR, we take your child’s health seriously and offer an incredibly high standard of care and knowledge. Ready to speak to one of our caring doctors? Book an appointment today!