A dislocated elbow after a car crash
Guidance from an orthopedic trauma surgeon and a hand therapist
With a dislocated elbow, the bones have slipped out of their normal line. The damage can go beyond a crooked look. Ligaments may tear. A bone may break at the same time. The nerves and the artery that feed the hand run close to this joint. A crash can create enough force to cause all of these injuries. [1]
Do not try to put the elbow back in place yourself. Get a prompt emergency exam. [1]
Learn what the ER team checked
The emergency team usually checks your pulse and how warm your hand is. They also test finger movement and feeling, both before and after putting the joint back. X rays show where the bones sit and look for any breaks. Ask if the elbow stayed stable when it was gently tested after being put back. [1]
A simple, stable dislocation may need a splint for a short time, then guided movement. A break or ongoing instability can change that plan. Surgery may be needed in those cases. [1]
Keep it stable without losing motion
Elbows get stiff easily. Ask exactly when and how to start bending and straightening the arm. A brace may block the directions that could let the joint slip out again. Wear the sling, splint or brace the way you were told. [1]
Do not lean on the arm, lift something heavy or force the last few degrees of motion to test it. A hand therapist can help you regain useful motion within the limits your surgeon sets. [1]
Changes that can't wait
Get emergency care if your hand turns cold or pale or your fingers get harder to move. Spreading numbness or pain that climbs fast also needs emergency care. Call your care team if the joint feels unstable in a new way or the brace no longer fits. [1]
Questions about stability and safe motion
- After the elbow was put back, was there a break or any lasting instability?
- Which movements are safe for me this week?
- When will my blood flow, nerves and motion be checked again?
Practice only the motion you were shown
Have someone on your care team show you the exact motion you can practice at home. [1]
Sources and further reading
For splinting, movement, lifting and checkups, follow what your own care team tells you. This page is general education from orthopedic trauma and hand therapy.
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