Elbow dislocation
The elbow, which connects the upper arm (humerus) to the forearm (radius and ulna), is a complex joint in the human body, comprising three distinct articulations: the ulnohumerus (ulna and humerus), the radiohumerus (radius and humerus) and the radioulnar (radius and ulna). The elbow has an essential function, enabling flexion-extension and rotation of the arm.
Elbow stability is ensured by passive stabilizers (e.g. capsule, ligaments, etc.) and active stabilizers (muscles). The elbow is one of the most frequently dislocated joints in both the sporting and general populations. Depending on the degree of separation of the bones, dislocation (complete separation of the joint with the displaced bones) or subluxation (partial separation of the joint with the bones still in contact) may occur.
The most common direction of dislocation is posterior, although anterior dislocations are also possible. Medial and lateral dislocations are often associated with the main anterior and posterior directions. The direction of dislocation and resulting symptoms generally depend on the mechanism of injury, which typically involves a fall onto an outstretched hand (posterior dislocation) or a bent elbow (anterior dislocation). Other injury mechanisms exist, such as violent contact in sports or road accidents.
Following elbow dislocation, a reduction technique must be implemented to reposition the joint in its natural position. Following this reduction, patient management is influenced by several factors linked to the traumatic event, such as the presence of associated lesions (e.g. fractures, ligament damage, etc.), the involvement of other structures (e.g. damage to the nervous or vascular system, etc.) and the characteristics of the patients concerned (e.g. age).
Conservative treatment generally involves immobilization with a long splint to prevent elbow movement. Once the stability of the joint has been reassessed after this period of immobilization, rehabilitation can begin, as prolonged immobilization can be detrimental to recovery.
In cases where surgical treatment is required (e.g. severe joint laxity, associated injuries, fractures, etc.), numerous procedures are available and always discussed between the patient and the medical-surgical team. After surgery, a period of immobilization/protection with the use of a sling is generally recommended, and rehabilitation should begin as soon as indicated by the medical team.
At Foxphysio, after an in-depth consultation with one of our specialist doctors, your recovery process will be structured in different stages, and will take the following forms