Health A-Z

Radial head subluxation, also known as nursemaid's elbow or pulled elbow, is a common injury in young children where the radius bone slips out of its normal position at the elbow joint. Here's a breakdown of each aspect.

• Sudden onset of pain in the affected arm, usually around the elbow region.
• The child may hold the arm in a slightly bent position and avoid using it.
• Reluctance or inability to straighten or rotate the arm.
• Sometimes there is visible swelling or tenderness around the elbow joint.

• Reduction Maneuver: The primary treatment for radial head subluxation involves manually reducing the dislocation to relocate the radius bone back into its normal position. This maneuver is typically performed by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nurse. One common technique involves gently flexing the elbow while simultaneously applying pressure over the radial head.
• Pain Management: After reduction, any residual pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Immobilization: In some cases, a splint or sling may be recommended to immobilize the arm for a short period to allow the ligaments around the elbow joint to heal.
• Follow-up: It's important to follow up with a healthcare provider to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns or complications.

• Diagnosis of radial head subluxation is primarily clinical, based on the history of sudden onset of pain and physical examination findings, such as limited movement of the affected arm and tenderness around the elbow joint.
• X-rays or other imaging tests are generally not necessary for diagnosing radial head subluxation unless there is suspicion of an associated fracture or other complicating factors.