Pulled elbow

Pulled Elbow

Pulled elbow, also known as Nursemaid's elbow or Radial head subluxation, is a common injury among young children, particularly those under the age of five.

Pronunciation

Pulled elbow: /pʊld ˈɛlboʊ/

Etymology

The term "pulled elbow" is derived from the nature of the injury itself. It often occurs when a child's arm is pulled or jerked, causing the radius (one of the bones in the forearm) to slip out of place from the annular ligament.

Definition

A pulled elbow is a type of subluxation or partial dislocation that happens when the radius moves out of its normal position in relation to the elbow joint. This can occur when a strong force is applied to the elbow, such as when a child is pulled up by the hand or wrist.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a pulled elbow may include pain, inability to use the arm, and holding the arm slightly bent at the elbow. The child may also refuse to move the arm.

Treatment

Treatment for a pulled elbow typically involves a healthcare professional performing a maneuver to slip the radius back into place. This is usually a quick procedure and often provides immediate relief. After the procedure, the healthcare professional may recommend rest and avoiding activities that could cause another injury.

Related Terms

• Subluxation
• Dislocation
• Radius
• Elbow joint
• Annular ligament

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Pulled elbow
• Wikipedia's article - Pulled elbow

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