What is it about ?
The elbow joint is formed by the upper arm bone (humerus) and the two forearm bones (radius and ulna) below. It is surrounded by a strong joint capsule reinforced by ligaments.
In a dislocation, the forearm is usually moved back. The cause is always trauma, usually a fall on the outstretched arm or a severe shock to the back of the elbow. The joint capsule and ligaments lengthen or tear, and the forearm bones come out of the capsule. The main risk is that the nerves and blood vessels are damaged as a result of the trauma. The dislocation is often accompanied by a fracture of one or more bones.
How to recognize it?
The elbow is deformed. You can see the displaced bones in the back. The pain is significant and mobility is very limited. It is not possible to bend or straighten the elbow completely. Swelling may also appear after a while.
How is the diagnosis made?
The doctor can usually see a dislocated elbow during a regular physical examination. He will always take an x-ray of the elbow to make sure there is no fracture.
What can you do ?
You must not touch your elbow. Place the arm in a supportive sling, and go to the hospital straight away.
What can the doctor do?
If a fracture is found, your elbow will be immobilized. If there is only one dislocation, the bones are put back in place manually by a doctor. Then, a follow-up x-ray is taken to see if everything is in place. The arm is then placed in a support sling or splint for 3 weeks.
Since the elbow stiffens quickly, mobilization exercises should be started as quickly as possible under the supervision of a physiotherapist. A follow-up x-ray is taken after 1 to 3 weeks.
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