Elbow Dislocation Specialist in Chicago, IL
What is a Dislocated Elbow?
When any of the three bones at your elbow joint are pushed out of place, it is known as a dislocation. These injuries are one of the most common types of dislocation injuries, usually related to contact sports or falls. A dislocated elbow can be complete when the bones fully separate, or partial when the joint surfaces are only partially separated. A dislocation can also strain or injure the tissues around the joint such as:
- Muscles
- Tendons
- Nerves
- Ligaments
Whether complete or partial, a dislocated elbow requires medical treatment to ensure proper healing. The leading specialists at our Chicago area orthopedic clinic offer diagnosis and follow-up care.
How Do I Know if My Elbow is Dislocated?
Common signs of a dislocated elbow include:
- Pain in the area
- Your elbow appears out of place or swollen
- Bruising
- Loss of elbow movement
- Weakness or instability in your elbow
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms the leading elbow pain specialists at Suburban Orthopaedics of Chicago, IL can diagnose and treat your dislocated elbow.
Who is at Risk of a Dislocated Elbow?
Children under 16 and people over 65 are at the highest risk for dislocated elbows. They are also common in people who play contact sports and those who suffer from health conditions that weaken their joint ligaments such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. While some people may be at higher risk, a dislocation can affect anyone. If you require treatment for a dislocated elbow in Chicago, IL, the leading orthopedic doctors at Suburban Orthopaedics are here to help.
How are Dislocated Elbows Diagnosed?
There are many causes of elbow pain. A medical examination by an orthopedic specialist is required to diagnose a dislocated elbow. During this exam, your doctor will check your arm for swelling, tenderness, and deformities. They may also order an X-ray, MRI, CT Scan, or ultrasound to determine the extent of the injury.
How are Dislocated Elbows Treated?
The most important part of treatment for a dislocated elbow is manipulating the joint back into place. This can only be done by a medical professional. Do not try to put the joint back into place yourself as you can cause more injury to the area. While a simple dislocation won’t need surgery, surgery may be required if a fracture or torn tissue is present around the dislocation. Once the joint is back in place, you will be fitted with a sling or brace to keep the arm immobilized for four to six weeks while it heals. Over-the-counter medications can be used to manage pain and swelling, and you will need to avoid certain activities while you heal. Your orthopedic specialist at Suburban Orthopaedics will help guide you on your path to recovery.
Dislocated Elbow Treatment in Chicago, IL
If you are experiencing symptoms of a dislocated elbow, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Medical diagnosis and treatment are required for your arm to heal correctly. Schedule an appointment at one of our Chicago area orthopedic clinics today.
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