An elbow dislocation takes place when the joints of the elbow shift out of place and the bones of the forearm do not align with the bones of the upper arm. This condition may be caused by fractures of the arm bones, Injuries that affect the arteries in the arm area and injuries that affect the nerves that pass through the elbow joint. Such injuries may cause loss of feeling and impairment of normal movement in the arm and hand. Most elbow dislocations occur due to a fall wherein the arm is extended outwards. Other trauma such as motor vehicle accidents may also result in dislocation of the elbow.
The symptoms of a dislocated elbow include severe pain in the elbow area. Swelling and tenderness may also occur, and the individual may be unable to bend the arm at the elbow joint. Some cases of elbow dislocation can even result in a loss of sensation in the arm and hand, and sometimes the pulse may not be felt in the wrist. This is due to the fact that the injury may have caused damage to the nerves and arteries that travel along the elbow area. A dislocated elbow is a serious condition which requires immediate medical attention. Until the time that you can consult a doctor, you may apply an ice compress to the area so that pain and swelling is alleviated. To know if the arteries and nerves are still intact, feel the area beneath the thumb and check for a pulse. You can also press the fingertips. If they become white and then regain their normal pinkness, then it is normal. To check for the nerves, bend your wrist up in a “stop” gesture. This tests the strength of the radial nerve. Spreading the fingers apart checks function of the ulnar nerve and touching the thumb to the little finger checks strength of the median nerve.
If you have difficulty with any of the tests, early medical attention is necessary. The doctor is likely to use a splint to immobilize the joint and a sling may be required to immobilize the whole arm. Soaking the affected area in a bath of cold water thrice a day will help to reduce pain. Heat compresses may also prove to be beneficial and heating pads or hot showers may be used to relieve discomfort. Adequate rest is necessary to allow the dislocated joint to heal properly.
answered by G M