Dislocated Elbow in Children: Care Instructions

Your Care Instructions

When the bones of the elbow are forced out of their normal position, it is called a dislocated elbow. This can cause pain from the elbow to the hand. A doctor can put your child's elbow back in place.

Your doctor probably put a splint on your child's elbow. This is to keep it in position while it heals. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy. This can help your child exercise the elbow and keep it flexible. You can also help your child get better with rest and home treatment.

If your child injured muscles or tendons, more treatment or surgery may be needed.

Your child may have had a sedative to help them relax. Your child may be unsteady after having sedation. It takes time (sometimes a few hours) for the medicine's effects to wear off. Common side effects of sedation include nausea, vomiting, and feeling sleepy or cranky.

The doctor has checked your child carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

How can you care for your child at home?

• If your doctor put a splint on your child's elbow, have your child wear it as directed. Do not remove it until your doctor says it is okay.
• While your child wears the splint, have your child wiggle the uninjured fingers, make a fist, or squeeze a soft ball. This can reduce swelling and stiffness.
• If your child has an elastic bandage, make sure it is tight. But it should not be so tight that your child's arm gets numb or tingles. Loosen the bandage if it is too tight or your child's hand swells.
• Put ice or a cold pack on your child's elbow for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when your child is awake). Put a thin cloth between the ice and your child's skin.
• Prop up your child's elbow on a pillow when putting ice on it or anytime your child sits or lies down during the next 3 days. Have your child try to keep the arm above the level of the heart. This will help reduce swelling.
• Have your child rest the arm as much as possible. Your child may need to change some activities to avoid movements that bother the elbow.
• Give your child medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with any medicine.
• If your doctor recommends it, give your child anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to reduce pain and swelling. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• If your doctor recommends exercises, help your child do them as directed.