What should you know about medial elbow dislocation?

A dislocation occurs when the bones forming the elbow joint are forced out of their normal alignment. A fall, collision or force through an outstretched hand can damage the joint and its supporting ligaments; a fracture may occur at the same time. The inner side may be painful or bruised, but the visible position does not show the full extent of the injury.

Clinicians check the hand's colour, warmth, pulse, sensation and finger movement before and after treatment. Imaging helps assess alignment and associated bone injury.

Keep the arm still in the position found and support it with a sling or folded clothing. Remove rings and watches before swelling increases. Do not try to push the elbow back into place, straighten it forcefully or eat and drink if urgent treatment may require sedation. Go to an emergency service promptly.

A clinician may use closed reduction to return the joint to alignment, followed by protection and carefully timed movement. Physiotherapy can then address stiffness, strength and stability according to the injury.

Treat a suspected dislocation as an emergency, especially when the elbow looks deformed or cannot move normally. Call emergency services if the hand becomes pale, blue, cold, numb or weak, or if pain and swelling increase rapidly. Do not drive yourself if the arm is severely injured or you feel faint.

Is there a fracture or ligament injury as well? How will alignment be checked? How long should the elbow be protected? When should movement begin? Which symptoms suggest nerve or circulation problems during recovery?