Understanding Dislocation of Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Dislocation of Elbow

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

General

The humerus, ulna, and radius are 3 bones that meet at the elbow and constitute the elbow joint. Elbow dislocation occurs when one or more of the elbow bones move out of place. It usually occurs through trauma from a car accident or sports injury.

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Signs & symptoms

Signs and symptoms of elbow dislocation are: joint deformity, elbow instability, joint pain, limited range or motion, numbness, swelling, and bruising.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of elbow dislocation usually starts when an orthopedic specialist examines your elbow, asks about your medical history and past injuries. In most cases, he or she will conduct further imaging tests to check for accompanying fractures or damage to the ligaments and tendons. These imaging tests include: CT and MRI scans, ultrasound, and X-ray.

Treatment

In most cases of elbow dislocation, the bones can be realigned and put back into place without surgery, and kept immobilized with a splint. Pain or anti-inflammatory medications may be part of the treatment as well. If your elbow dislocation is a complete dislocation or is accompanied by bone fractures and torn ligaments and tendons, surgery may be required.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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