A dislocated elbow is a common injury in adults and children and often happens in tandem with bone fractures and nerve and tissue damage. Can physical therapy help to support recovery and ensure range of motion?
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Elbow dislocations are generally caused by trauma when the elbow bones no longer connect. Individuals falling onto an outstretched hand is the most common cause of the injury. (James Layson, Ben J. Best 2023) Healthcare providers will try to relocate the elbow using a closed reduction. Individuals may require surgery if they cannot relocate the elbow using closed reduction.
The elbow is made up of a hinge and ball-and-socket joint, enabling unique motions: (American Society for Surgery of the Hand. 2021)
A dislocated elbow injury can damage bones, muscles, ligaments, and tissues. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2021) The longer the elbow remains out of the joint, the more damage can occur. Elbow dislocations rarely reset into their joints on their own and are recommended to be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider to prevent permanent damage to nerves or function.
The two types of elbow dislocations are: (James Layson, Ben J. Best 2023)
A dislocated elbow injury is often caused by trauma. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2021) General signs and symptoms include: (American Society for Surgery of the Hand. 2021)
Resuming regular activity often depends on the type of treatment for the elbow dislocation: (Ortho Bullets. 2023)
Layson J, Best BJ. Elbow Dislocation. [Updated 2023 Jul 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549817/
American Society for Surgery of the Hand. (2021). Elbow dislocation.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2023). Elbow dislocation.
Jones J, Carroll D, El-Feky M, et al. (2023). Elbow dislocation. Reference article, Radiopaedia.org doi.org/10.53347/rID-10501
Medline Plus. (2022). Closed reduction of a fractured bone.
Ortho Bullets. (2023). Elbow dislocation.
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