more about Nursemaid’s Elbow
Description
- Nursemaid’s elbow is a dislocated elbow in a toddler. It is usually caused by pulling on the extended arm of a child by a parent or playmate, such as when a child is lifted by one arm over a step, or the street curb, or when a child falls while holding an adult’s hand.
Symptoms
- Refusal to use the affected arm
- Movement of the elbow causes pain.
- Children will often hold the affected arm bent in front of them, sometimes supporting it with the other hand.
How the diagnosis is made
- A history of pulling on the arm by a caregiver or playmat
- Physical examination and history are usually all that are needed to diagnose nursemaid’s elbow.
- X-rays are sometimes obtained to make sure that a Fracture is not present.
Treatment
- Flexion (bending) of the elbow in a certain fashion by a doctor will usually reduce the dislocation.
- After reduction, children will usually cry, then immediately look more comfortable; after several minutes of observation, most will again begin to use the affected arm.
- Some doctors may place a child’s arm in a protective sling for 1 or 2 days, although this is not always necessary.
Complications
- If the arm is again pulled, the dislocation can reoccur.
- Repeated dislocations can make future ones even more likely.
Prevention
- Young children should be lifted by both arms, or with support around their waists and chests.
- Older playmates should be warned not to pull excessively on the extended arms of younger children.
