Pulled elbow

A pulled elbow occurs when a forearm bone (called the radius) slips out of its usual position. This is also known as a partial dislocation. It’s a common injury that usually occurs in children under 5 years.

A pulled elbow is easily fixed and while it can often occur more than once, it will not cause any long-term damage.

What causes it?

A pulled elbow is most often caused by a sudden pull on a child’s hand or wrist (for example, when trying to prevent a child from falling or running across a road). It can also happen after a fall.

Sometimes, it can be caused when a child is picked up by the lower arms or wrists - this is why it’s important to lift children up using their armpits.

Sometimes there is no obvious cause.

Signs and symptoms

• Sudden pain around the elbow joint
• Elbow held slightly bent against body
• Reluctance to bend or straighten the elbow or turn hand over (palm side up)

How is it diagnosed?

A doctor can diagnose a pulled elbow by examining the arm. X-rays are not required unless the doctor thinks there may be another type of elbow injury (such as a fracture).

Treatment

The elbow can usually be placed back into position quickly by a health professional. Sometimes pain medication is given, but often this is not necessary.

Children usually feel better as soon as the elbow is back in position and will start using their arm again normally within 5-10 minutes. If the elbow was ‘out’ for a while, it may take longer for arm use to return to normal.

Splints or slings are not usually required especially if the injury was treated quickly.

When to seek help

See your GP or a doctor if your child:

• has sudden pain around the elbow or they are holding it slightly bent against their body.
  Do not attempt to put the elbow back in place yourself—this can cause harm and further pain if not done properly or if your child has a different injury.
• continues to not use the arm normally after 24 hours.
• you are concerned for any reason.

If you're not sure whether to go to an emergency department, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and speak to a registered nurse.

In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.

Developed by the Emergency Department, Queensland Children’s Hospital. We acknowledge the input of consumers and carers.

Resource ID: FS016. Reviewed: November 2023.

Disclaimer: This information has been produced by healthcare professionals as a guideline only and is intended to support, not replace, discussion with your child’s doctor or healthcare professionals. Information is updated regularly, so please check you are referring to the most recent version. Seek medical advice, as appropriate, for concerns regarding your child’s health.