Nursemaid's Elbow
Alternate Names : Dislocated Elbow - Children, Pulled Elbow
Definition Nursemaid's elbow is a partial dislocation of the elbow joint, making it difficult and painful to move the joint.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Nursemaid's elbow is a common condition in young children and generally affects children under five. It occurs when someone pulls a child too hard by the hand or wrist.
Nursemaid's elbow is often seen after a parent lifts a child by one arm up a curb or high step. The child generally begins to cry immediately and refuses to use the arm. The child hold's the arm in a slightly flexed position (slightly bent at the elbow) and holds the forearm against the abdomen. The child will move the shoulder, but not the elbow.
Often, the child will stop crying as the immediate pain subsides, but will continue to refuse to move the elbow.
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