Elbow Dislocation

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

• An elbow dislocation (dih-slo-k-shun) happens when the bones in the elbow are pulled apart. This causes stretching or tearing of the ligaments that hold the bones together in the elbow joint. Your elbow may be swollen, red, or hurt. Your elbow, arm, and hand may feel weak, numb, or tingly. When the bones are out of place, your elbow may not be shaped normal. You will not be able to move the injured elbow very well.
  
  
• Dislocated elbows are caused by an injury or an accident. Many times as you fall you reach out with your hand to stop the fall. Landing on your outstretched hand can cause your elbow to dislocate. Each time your elbow is dislocated, it is easier for it to happen again. You may need an x-ray of your elbow. Caregivers can then put the bones back where they belong. This may be painful until the bones are popped back into place. It may take from 6 to 8 weeks for the elbow to heal. If your elbow pulls apart easily and often, you may need surgery to fix it.

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Apply ice to the injured elbow during the first 12 to 24 hours to reduce swelling and pain. Put the ice in a plastic bag and place a towel between the bag of ice and your skin.
  
  
• Ask your caregiver when you can use heat to decrease your pain.
  
  
• Wear the splint for as long as your caregiver suggests. If you remove the sling to dress or bathe, be sure your arm stays in the same position as when the sling is on.

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• Your pain or swelling gets worse.
  
  
• You have trouble moving your elbow after your injury.
  
  
• The bones in your elbow pop in and out of place more than once.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• Your arm feels numb or cold and looks pale.
  
  

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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