Episode 975: Nursemaid's Elbow

Contributor: Aaron Lessen, MD

Educational Pearls:

What is a Nursemaid's Elbow?

A condition in which an elbow gets partially pulled out of place (a radial head subluxation) Usually happens in kids under 5 because the ligaments around their elbow are still loose. A common situation is when an adult pulls a child up by the hand or swings them by the arms. The sudden tug causes the radius to slip out of its normal spot at the elbow joint.

How are they identified?

These don't normally need an xray The child will often...