NURSEMAID’S ELBOW

        

      Nursemaids elbow also called Pulled elbow seen commonly in children between 2-5 years of age. It occurs when there is sudden pull on child’s lower wrist or arm or when the child is lifted up by the wrist. As the child’s ligaments are bit loose to hold the joints so it’s easily slipped to the elbow joint.

Symptoms:

• The child starts crying and unable to move the affected hand. 
• The child may hold the arm at their side as it hangs down 
• Pain 
• Mild swelling 
• Sometimes chances of fracture also 

Diagnosis:

    Usually no special tests are needed to diagnose pulled elbow but sometimes will take X Ray if doctor is suspecting any further injuries around the elbow. 

Treatment:

1. If there is no signs of swelling and further injuries then doctor will plan Reduction treatment . 
2. The child will sit in a comfortable position and the doctor will takes the arm and gently straightens the arm and will give direct pressure over the (head of the radius of elbow bone ) elbow joint. 
3. A sudden click is heard or felt as the elbow goes back to its normal place. 
4. The child becomes comfortable and will start to move his elbow immediately. 

Prevention: 

     It’s important to know that the pulled elbow may occur again . So be careful of that risks and don’t give much pressure on that joint and don’t pull or tug or swing your child by the arms. 

Note: 
Don’t try to fix pulled elbow by yourself please consult your doctor.