Radial head dislocation
Alternative names:
partial elbow dislocation; elbow subluxation
First aid:
- Apply an ice pack to elbow.
- Splint the injured arm in the position in which you found
it. Immobilize the area both above and below the injured
joint, including the shoulder and the wrist if possible.
- Take the child to the doctor's office or emergency room.
In some cases of frequently recurring nursemaid's
elbow, your physician may teach you how to attempt to
relocate the elbow yourself. This is done by supinating
(externally rotating) the forearm (in other words, turning
the thumb out with palm up), then gently flexing the arm
at the elbow (pushing the forearm up into the biceps).
Do not:
- DO NOT move the child without first splinting the arm.
- DO NOT attempt to straighten the arm or change its position.
Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:
Althoug this injury is not usually a medical emergency,
you should call for immediate medical attention if any of
the above symptoms is present.
Updated Date: 02/09/00
Updated By:J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
editorial
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