Partial Elbow Dislocation

Start by recognizing when to seek help: if after a pull or a fall someone avoids moving the elbow and complains when trying to, it could be a partial dislocation of the elbow. This injury occurs when the bones of the joint shift partially out of position, something common in young children.

How it shows up: the arm is kept still and slightly bent, there is discomfort when moving it and a refusal to use it, generally without obvious deformity.

What to do? Avoid manipulating the arm and go in for an evaluation, since the joint needs to be assessed carefully.

Which specialist treats it? The orthopedist, the pediatric orthopedist, or the pediatrician evaluate a partial dislocation of the elbow. Faced with a situation like this, the safest course is to leave the maneuver in the hands of a professional.