Question
What are the common symptoms of pediatric elbow dislocation?
Answer
Pediatric elbow dislocation often presents with the elbow joint being extended and the forearm suddenly inwardly rotated. When trying to return to the original position, the superior part of the annular ligament cannot retract and gets caught between the arm and neck joints, causing a partial dislocation of the olecranon. It is common in children under 5 years old and often occurs when pulling on the hand during activities like dressing, falling, or when the forearm is in a pronated position. The child may exhibit hunching of the shoulder, slightly flexed elbow joint close to the chest, and reluctance to move. Pain may worsen and crying may occur during passive movement.