A dislocated elbow is a painful and potentially serious injury that can occur during sports, accidents or falls. The orthopedic specialists at Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians share more about dislocated elbows and what to expect during recovery.
Understanding Elbow Anatomy
The elbow is a complex joint formed by three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the radius (one of the forearm bones), and the ulna (the other forearm bone). Ligaments and cartilage stabilize this joint, allowing for a range of motion while supporting weight and movement. The elbow joint, although non-weight bearing, may be the most complex joint in the human body.
What Is a Dislocated Elbow?
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a dislocated elbow occurs when the bones of the elbow joint are displaced or forced out of their normal alignment. Elbow dislocations can be complete or partial:
- In a complete dislocation, the joint surfaces are completely separated.
- In a partial dislocation, the joint surfaces are only partially separated. A partial dislocation is also called a subluxation.
This can happen in various ways but is most commonly associated with falls, sports injuries or sudden twists. In children, it may occur during activities like swinging or being pulled by the arm.
According to the Hand Clinics journal, the elbow joint is the second most commonly injured joint in sports-related injuries, only after the shoulder.
Signs and Symptoms of a Dislocated Elbow
If someone has dislocated their elbow, the symptoms may include:
- Intense Pain: The pain can be severe and immediate.
- Swelling and Bruising: The area around the elbow may become swollen and bruised.
- Deformity: The elbow may look out of shape or misaligned.
- Inability to Move: The individual may find it extremely painful or impossible to bend or straighten the arm.
- Numbness or Tingling: In some cases, there may be numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers.
How Is a Dislocated Elbow Treated?
The treatment for a dislocated elbow typically involves two main approaches:
- Reduction: This is the process of gently repositioning the bones. It is often done under sedation or local anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure.
- Immobilization: After the reduction, the elbow may be immobilized with a splint or brace for several weeks to allow proper healing.
In some cases, particularly where there are accompanying fractures or significant ligament damage, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore stability to the joint.
Recovery from a dislocated elbow requires time and patience. Initially, you may need to follow a rehabilitation program prescribed by your orthopedic specialist.
Elbow Fractures and Dislocations
A dislocated elbow can be a formidable injury, but with proper medical care and adherence to rehabilitation protocols, most individuals can expect to regain full function of their elbow. If you encounter pain or difficulty with your elbow joint, contact the nearest Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians location to ensure prompt and appropriate care.
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