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Contents
  • Understanding Elbow Dislocations
  • Steps to Reduction
  • Post-Reduction Care

How Are Elbow Dislocations Treated?

How Are Elbow Dislocations Treated?

The Big Picture

Elbow dislocations are painful and require immediate attention. Learn about the treatment procedures to get you back on track.
Contents
  • Understanding Elbow Dislocations
  • Steps to Reduction
  • Post-Reduction Care

Understanding Elbow Dislocations

Elbow dislocations occur when the bones in the elbow joint are forced out of position. They are often caused by falls or accidents and are the second most common dislocation after shoulder dislocations. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and limited movement, often accompanied by an obvious deformity.

Steps to Reduction

Reducing a dislocated elbow involves procedures to realign the bones. It typically requires sedation or local anesthesia to minimize pain. Techniques like traction or leverage are used to guide the bones back into place. Successful reduction restores joint function but may require imaging to confirm proper alignment.
Procedures to realign bones in the elbow joint after dislocation, involving techniques like traction or leverage under sedation or local anesthesia.

Post-Reduction Care

After reduction, the elbow is immobilized in a splint or sling to promote healing. Follow-up with an orthopedic surgeon is essential to check for complications like nerve damage or instability. Early movement exercises can help regain full function and prevent stiffness.

FAQs

What causes elbow dislocations?

They are often caused by falls or accidents.

How is a dislocated elbow treated?

By reducing the bones back into place using traction techniques.

Is imaging necessary after reduction?

Yes, imaging confirms proper alignment.

What should be done post-reduction?

The elbow should be immobilized and followed up by a surgeon.

Wrapping Up

Timely reduction and care are crucial for a quick recovery from elbow dislocations.
Discuss with Doctronic how to manage elbow dislocations effectively.
Additional References
  1. Josefsson PO, Johnell O, Gentz CF. Long-term sequelae of simple dislocation of the elbow. J Bone Joint Surg Am 1984; 66:927.
  2. Gottlieb M. Managing Elbow Dislocations. Ann Emerg Med 2022; 80:460.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.