An elbow dislocation occurs when the bones that form the elbow joint (humerus, radius, and ulna)
are forced out of their normal alignment. It is a common joint dislocation, second only to the shoulder.

Causes of Elbow Dislocation

• Trauma (Most Common Cause):

  Falls onto an outstretched hand with the arm extended.

  Direct impact or high-energy trauma (e.g., motor vehicle accidents).

• Sports Injuries:

  Common in contact sports (e.g., rugby, wrestling) or those involving falls (e.g., gymnastics).

• Congenital Conditions or Joint Laxity:

  Loose ligaments can predispose individuals to joint dislocations.

• Previous Injury:

  A history of elbow instability or prior dislocation increases the risk.

Types of Elbow Dislocations

• Simple Dislocation:

  No associated fractures.

  Only the joint is misaligned.

• Complex Dislocation:

  Accompanied by fractures of one or more bones around the joint.

  Often involves ligament and soft tissue damage.

• Partial (Subluxation):

  The joint surfaces are partially misaligned but not fully dislocated.

• Complete Dislocation:

  Total separation of joint surfaces.

Symptoms of Elbow Dislocation

1. Intense pain in the elbow joint.

2. Obvious deformity of the elbow.

3. Swelling and bruising.

4. Inability to move the joint.

5. Numbness or weakness in the hand or fingers (indicating nerve involvement).

Diagnosis

• Physical Examination:

  Inspection of joint alignment, range of motion, and neurovascular status.

• Imaging:

  X-rays: To confirm dislocation and check for fractures.

  CT or MRI: Used for complex cases or to assess ligament and soft tissue
  injuries.

Treatment

• Emergency Care

  1. Immobilize the arm in its current position.

  2. Avoid attempting to relocate the joint yourself, as improper handling can worsen the injury.

  3. Apply ice to reduce swelling and seek immediate medical attention.

• Reduction (Realignment)

  1. Closed Reduction (Non-Surgical):

     Performed under sedation or anesthesia by a healthcare professional.

     Gentle manipulation is used to restore the joint alignment.

  2. Open Reduction (Surgical):

     Required for complex dislocations, fractures, or if closed reduction fails.

• Post-Reduction Care

  1. Immobilization:

     A splint or sling is applied for 1–3 weeks to allow healing.

  2. Imaging:

     Post-reduction X-rays to confirm proper alignment.

  3. Pain Management:

     NSAIDs or prescribed pain relievers.

Rehabilitation

• Early Mobilization:

  Gradual, supervised movement to prevent stiffness and regain range of motion.

  Start within a week for simple dislocations (as directed by the physician).

• Physical Therapy:

  Strengthening exercises for the elbow, forearm, and shoulder.

  Proprioception and stability training to restore normal joint function.

• Recovery Timeline:

  Simple dislocation: 4–6 weeks for light activities, up to 3 months for full recovery.

  Complex dislocation: Longer recovery depending on associated injuries.

Complications

• Joint Stiffness:

  Common due to immobilization or scar tissue formation.

• Instability:

  Damage to ligaments can lead to chronic elbow instability.

• Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury:

  Compression or damage during dislocation may cause numbness, weakness, or circulation issues.

• Arthritis:

  Long-term complication due to joint damage or cartilage wear.