Elbow Dislocation

What it is

The elbow works like a door hinge, held together by the shape of its bones and strong ligaments. In a dislocation, the bones lose contact and the ligaments and joint capsule tear. Simple dislocations involve only soft tissue and often heal without surgery. Complex dislocations include fractures and are more likely to need surgery and to cause stiffness or instability.

What causes it

Falls, car accidents, and sports injuries. Being very flexible, a previous fracture that healed out of shape, or a prior dislocation raises the risk.

Symptoms

• Severe pain and a visibly deformed elbow
• Inability to move the joint
• Rapid swelling and bruising
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand from stretched nerves

Diagnosis

An examination and X-rays show the direction of the dislocation and any fractures. CT or MRI may follow initial treatment to check ligaments, cartilage, and nerves.

Treatment

The elbow should be put back in place (reduced) as soon as safely possible, which lowers the risk of lasting nerve problems and eases pain and swelling. Numbing medicine or sedation may be used. Most elbow dislocations do not need surgery. Early motion is critical because elbows stiffen quickly, with a brace, splint, or sling between exercise sessions. Surgery may be needed if the elbow will not go back into place, is unstable afterward, or has displaced fractures.

Recovery

Therapy helps regain motion and strength, but the elbow may never be quite equal to the other side, and some stiffness is common. The ulnar nerve can develop problems later, causing numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers. The best results come with early diagnosis and treatment.