1. Age is a Factor
Nursemaid's elbow, also called a radial head dislocation, is the partial dislocation of the elbow and almost always occurs in children younger than 5. Rarely, an older child or adult will get nursemaid's elbow as a result of a fractured forearm. Nursemaid's elbow should be suspected if a young child immediately begins crying after being lifted by an arm. The injury can also occur when pulling a child's arm through a sleeve while dressing.
2. Listen to the Complaint
If your child complains of elbow pain, the diagnosis is likely nursemaid's elbow. Children with nursemaid's elbow typically hold the arm slightly bent and against the abdomen. The crying might subside when the immediate pain lessens, but the child often refuses to use her arm. The child will continue to be protective of the arm until the elbow is reset.
3. An Absence of Symptoms
Nursemaid's elbow doesn't produce many physical symptoms. Nursemaid's elbow is often diagnosed if the pain is persistent without any signs of trauma, including bruising and swelling. Sensation and circulation aren't affected when the elbow dislocates. The child should be able to wiggle his fingers but will likely be reluctant to do so out of fear of aggravating the elbow.
4. Rotation Limitation
A child with nursemaid's elbow won't be able to rotate her arm until the palm is facing up. She will also be unable to fully flex the arm. Some children with nursemaid's elbow will continue to use their arms but compensate by overusing the shoulder.
5. Seek Medical Treatment
Only a doctor can accurately diagnose and treat nursemaid's elbow. However, some pediatricians might opt to teach parents how to correct the condition if a child repeatedly injures the elbow. Never attempt to set a child's elbow without adequate training. If you suspect your child has nursemaid's elbow, schedule an emergency doctor's visit or go to the emergency room. A doctor can set the elbow, often without the use of X-rays.
