Nursemaid's Elbow Fix: Easy Reduction

The dreaded nursemaid’s elbow, a common and often panic-inducing injury among young children. Also known as radial head subluxation, this condition occurs when the radius bone in the forearm partially dislocates from the elbow joint, typically due to a sudden pull or tug on the arm. The good news is that nursemaid’s elbow is relatively easy to fix, and with the right technique, you can help your little one feel better in no time.

What causes nursemaid’s elbow?

Nursemaid’s elbow often occurs when a child is lifted or pulled by the hand, causing the radius bone to slip out of place. This can happen when a child is swung by the arms, pulled up from a seated position, or even when they fall onto an outstretched hand. The injury is more common in children under the age of 4, as their bones and joints are still developing.

Symptoms of nursemaid’s elbow

If your child has suffered a nursemaid’s elbow, they may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Pain or discomfort in the elbow or forearm
• Refusal to move the affected arm
• Holding the affected arm still or in a bent position
• Limited range of motion in the elbow joint
• Possible swelling or bruising around the elbow

How to fix nursemaid’s elbow

Fortunately, nursemaid’s elbow is relatively easy to reduce, and the procedure can often be performed by a parent or caregiver. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Stay calm: It’s essential to remain calm and composed when dealing with a child who has suffered a nursemaid’s elbow. This will help your child feel more at ease and reduce their anxiety.
2. Support the arm: Gently support the affected arm, keeping it straight and in a neutral position.
3. Flexion: Slowly flex the elbow, bringing the child’s hand towards their shoulder. This will help to reduce the subluxation.
4. Supination: While maintaining the flexed position, gently rotate the forearm so that the palm faces upwards (supination).
5. Extension: Slowly extend the elbow, straightening the arm while maintaining the supinated position.
6. Rotation: Rotate the forearm so that the palm faces downwards (pronation).

Reduction technique

To increase the chances of successful reduction, try the following technique:

After the reduction

After successfully reducing the nursemaid’s elbow, your child may still experience some discomfort or pain. You can help alleviate this by:

• Applying ice to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain
• Using over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as directed by your pediatrician
• Encouraging your child to rest and avoid heavy use of the affected arm

Prevention is key

While nursemaid’s elbow can be easily fixed, it’s always better to prevent the injury from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to help reduce the risk of nursemaid’s elbow:

• Always lift your child carefully, avoiding sudden jerks or pulls on the arm
• Avoid swinging your child by the arms or hands
• Teach your child to fall safely, with their arms bent and hands in a fist
• Supervise your child during play to prevent falls or accidents

FAQs

By following these simple steps and tips, you can help your child recover from a nursemaid’s elbow and reduce the risk of future injuries. Remember to always prioritize your child’s safety and well-being, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you’re unsure about the severity of the injury or the best course of treatment.