Elbow Dislocation – Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
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An elbow dislocation occurs when the radius and ulna in the forearm move out of their normal alignment with the humerus in the upper arm. These three bones form the elbow joint, and a dislocation occurs when they lose their normal alignment.
An elbow dislocation can also cause serious injuries, including fractures, damage to the arteries that carry blood to the hand, nerve damage around the elbow, and problems with movement or sensation in the arm and hand.
Causes of Elbow Dislocation
Most elbow dislocations occur after a fall, usually when a person lands with the arm fully extended.
This removes passive constructions such as “are displaced,” “can be dislocated,” “that can occur,” and “are caused by.”
But any trauma, such as a car accident, can cause an elbow dislocation.
Elbow Dislocation Symptoms
- Swelling
- Severe elbow pain
- Weakness in the joint
- Deformed looking arm
- Bruising
- Loss of ability to move the elbow
- Inability to bend the arm
Personal Care at Home
Elbow dislocation is a serious injury that requires medical help. However, you can take some self-care measures at home to ease swelling and pain. For example, you can apply ice to the elbow to help reduce swelling. Afterward, arrange an appointment with an orthopedic doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.
This Simple Test at Home Can Help You Check Whether the Artery and Nerves Are Intact
First, you can check the artery by feeling the base of the wrist below the thumb to locate the pulse. Similarly, press your fingertips gently; they should turn white and return to a pink color within a few seconds. If either test produces an abnormal result, seek medical attention immediately.
Nerve Function Test
In addition, three nerves pass through the elbow, and each nerve plays a role in strength and sensation. First, test your strength by flexing your wrist as if saying “stop” (radial nerve function). Next, extend your fingers to check ulnar nerve function. Finally, try to touch your thumb with your little finger to check median nerve function. If you experience any difficulty during these tests, contact your orthopedic doctor immediately.
Examination and tests
When you visit an orthopedic doctor, the doctor will examine you and perform a physical examination. First, the doctor will check your nerves and arteries by checking your pulse, testing sensation, moving your fingers and wrist, and confirming normal blood flow to your hand.
Next, the doctor will order an X-ray. In some cases, a fracture can look like a dislocation, and a fracture can also occur along with a dislocation.
If your doctor suspects an arterial injury, the doctor may order additional tests, such as an angiogram (X-ray of the arteries).
In addition, the doctor will test sensation by touching different areas of your hand and arm.
Dislocated Elbow Treatment in Hyderabad
During treatment, the doctor will reduce (realign) the elbow by gently retracting the wrist and guiding the joint back into place. Because this procedure can cause significant pain, the doctor may give you strong pain medication before starting the procedure.
When the elbow is back in place, the doctor will take an x-ray and put a splint on it to keep the elbow bent. The splint will form an “L” shape at the back of the elbow. It will be plaster or fiberglass. Its purpose is to prevent the arm from moving through the elbow. Your arms will usually be in a sling to help you hold up your splint.
Prevention
Take precautions and do not walk on slippery stairs and surfaces. Do not fall on outstretched arms. Avoid situations that make falls more common (such as walking at night or on slippery floors). Avoid overuse injuries by restricting overtraining in sports.
When to see a doctor? If you can’t move your elbow, have severe pain, can’t feel your hand, or feel uncomfortable, you should go to your doctor’s office or hospital emergency room right away. For the best dislocated elbow treatment in Hyderabad, meet Dr. Praharsha Mulpur.
