Radial head dislocation

Alternative names:

partial elbow dislocation; elbow subluxation

Definition:

A dislocation means the displacement of a body part (usually a joint) from its normal location. In a radial head dislocation, the forearm slips out of position at the elbow joint.

Considerations:

This is a common but easily preventable injury in 1 to 3- year- old children.

Once the elbow dislocates it is likely to do so again, especially in the 3 or 4 weeks following the injury.

Causes:

This injury occurs frequently among toddlers. It is caused by a sudden pull on the child's arm or hand. It typically occurs when an adult pulls the child up from the arm, often to prevent a fall, to assist the child up a curb, or to hurry the child along. Swinging toddlers from the arms while playing can also cause this injury.

"Nursemaid's elbow"(partial dislocation of the elbow resulting in decreased movement) does not usually occur after 4 years of age. By this time the child's joints and ligaments are stronger and they are less likely to be in a situation where this injury might occur.

Updated Date: 02/09/00

Updated By:J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial