Luxation / Subluxation (dislocated Elbow)

An elbow dislocation is an injury characterized by damage and tearing of the connective tissue surrounding the elbow joint. Additionally, the bones in the joint are displaced, no longer sitting in their normal alignment. An elbow dislocation can be a serious injury. During certain movements, significant forces can act on the elbow joint. If these movements occur too frequently, the connective tissue (capsules and ligaments) may tear. When the force exceeds what the muscles can handle, the bones may shift out of place. This is known as a dislocated or luxated elbow. Because such a high level of force is required, this injury is often accompanied by additional trauma.

Elbow – Causes of dislocation or subluxation

An elbow dislocation is usually caused by trauma that forces the bones of the elbow apart. This often happens during contact sports or when falling onto an outstretched arm.

Elbow – Signs & symptoms of dislocation or subluxation

Signs and symptoms of an elbow dislocation include:

• Sudden, intense pain at the time of trauma
• The person is unable to continue activity and instinctively holds the elbow to protect it
• Pain is felt in the elbow area but may also radiate to the arm, forearm, hand, or fingers
• A sensation that the elbow is "coming out of place"
• Swelling and visible deformity when comparing both arms
• Bruising may appear over time
• Pain increases with touch
• As swelling progresses, it may become impossible to fully bend or extend the elbow
• Tingling or numbness may be experienced
• The pulse in the wrist may be absent

Elbow – Treatment of elbow dislocation or subluxation

In most cases, the patient’s history combined with a clinical examination by a specialist such as a physical therapist is sufficient for diagnosis. Additional imaging, such as a bone scan, CT scan, or MRI, may help assess the severity of the injury. An X-ray may also be performed after the elbow has been realigned (relocated) by a specialist.

An elbow dislocation requires immediate medical attention. In some cases, blood vessels can be damaged due to the dislocation. If the wrist pulse is absent, urgent relocation is needed to restore blood flow. If the pulse remains absent after the elbow is relocated, immediate surgical intervention is necessary.

Patients without vascular compression will undergo an X-ray to rule out fractures before the joint is repositioned. Relocation must never be performed by the patient themselves, as improper handling can damage nerves, blood vessels, bones, ligaments, and cartilage.

An orthopedic specialist will determine the appropriate treatment, which may include immobilization, a brace, surgery, or repositioning displaced bone fragments. After the elbow has been relocated, the patient will undergo an intensive rehabilitation program with a physical therapist. This is essential for optimal recovery, minimizing the risk of recurrence, and reducing long-term damage. Treatment may include:

• Trigger point therapy
• Dry needling therapy
• Medical taping
• Soft tissue massage
• Electrotherapy or hydrotherapy
• Ice or heat therapy
• Training and activity modifications
• Joint mobilization
• Exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and posture
• Guidance and advice

At Podobrace, we offer a range of elbow braces designed to support recovery from this condition or to help prevent it from recurring.