Nursemaid's elbow Save

Nursemaid's Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Nursemaid's elbow, also known as pulled elbow or radial head subluxation, is a common injury that occurs in young children. It happens when the ligament that holds the radius (one of the two bones in the forearm) to the elbow joint becomes partially or completely torn. This injury is most common in children between the ages of 1 and 4 years old.

1. Causes: Nursemaid’s elbow occurs when the child’s arm is pulled or yanked suddenly, causing the radius bone to slip out of the ligament holding it in place. This can happen when a child is lifted or swung by their arms, or when they fall and grab onto something to break their fall.
2. Symptoms: The most common symptom of nursemaid's elbow is sudden pain in the child's arm. The child may also refuse to use the injured arm, and hold it close to their body or bent at the elbow. There may be swelling or tenderness around the elbow joint.
3. Treatment: If your child has symptoms of nursemaid's elbow, it's important to seek medical attention right away. A doctor or nurse can usually diagnose the injury based on the child's symptoms and by gently moving the affected arm. Treatment involves gently manipulating the bone back into place, which is a quick and painless procedure. After the bone is back in place, the child may need to wear a sling or brace to keep the arm immobilized.

It's important to take steps to prevent nursemaid's elbow from happening in the first place. This includes avoiding lifting or swinging your child by their arms, and teaching your child to break their fall with their hands rather than their arms. If your child has had nursemaid's elbow in the past, they may be more prone to it happening again, so it's important to be extra cautious with their arm.

In conclusion, nursemaid's elbow is a common injury in young children that can be easily treated with prompt medical attention. By taking steps to prevent it from happening and being cautious with your child's arm if they have had it before, you can help keep your child safe and healthy.