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West Orange
445 Pleasant Valley Way, Suite 100, West Orange, NJ 07052
862.520.4027
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Background & Etiology

The elbow joint is a connection point between the humerus (arm bone) and the radius and ulna (forearm bones) that is held together by ligaments in the joint. The elbow joint complex is responsible for the bending (flexion) and straightening (extension) motions of the arm and it also allows the arm to rotate the hand palm up (pronation) or palm down (supination).

Dislocations can impact the elbow’s ability to perform any of the motions of the elbow (flexion, extensions, pronation, or supination.) Elbow dislocation is when the radius or ulna bones (forearm) move out of place in relation to the humerus (upper arm)

Dislocation

An elbow dislocation occurs when the bones in the joint are separated, either partially (called a subluxation) or completely. Dislocations are most common in the younger population. When the elbow dislocates it stretches the ligaments that stabilize and support the joint.

  • Sudden trauma or accident like a fall on outstretched or straight arm can cause an elbow dislocation
  • Motor vehicle accident or sudden trauma.
  • Significant pain in the elbow
  • Individuals will prefer to keep the arm held at the side, and may feel and inability or unwillingness to move the arm.
  • Swelling, weakness, numbness and occasional bruising of the elbow area
  • Decreased circulation or loss of a pulse as nerves and arteries may be involved
  • Related fracture

If you suspect an elbow dislocation you need to see your physician immediately. Any delay may affect the nerves and/or blood supply to the arm. Physicians reduce acute dislocations by pulling down and levering the arm. This is painful and will require strong medication. The patient will than be put in an L splint to allow for proper healing.

  • If there is no fracture the patient will be placed in a splint and sling
  • After 5-7 days the physician may allow gentle motion progressing to range of motion and stretching exercises.
  • Ice may be applied to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Physical Therapy may be recommended.

Physical Therapists are professionals, educated and trained to administer interventions. As stated in The Guide to Physical Therapist Practice interventions are the skilled and purposeful use of physical therapy methods and techniques to produce changes consistent with the diagnosis, prognosis, and the goals of the patient or client. Common interventions in the treatment of Elbow Dislocation include:

  • Manual Therapeutic Technique (MTT): hands on care including soft tissue massage, and joint mobilization by a physical therapist to modulate pain and reduce any soft tissue or tendon irritation while helping to restore motion following a period of immobilization. Movements should avoid positions that place the elbow in the position that produced the dislocation (Apprehension Sign).
  • Therapeutic Exercises (TE) including exercises to strengthen the muscles in the arm, including the biceps, and increase joint stability.
  • Neuromuscular Reeducation (NMR) to restore stability, begin retraining the upper extremity, improve proximal joint stability and improve movement technique and mechanics (for example, throwing) in daily use of the involved upper extremity.
  • Modalities including the use of ultrasound, electrical stimulation, ice, cold laser and others to decrease pain and inflammation at the elbow and tendons.
  • Home program that includes strengthening, stretching and stabilization exercises as well as instructions to help the person perform daily tasks and advance to the next functional level.

Procedures that your physician may recommend and perform in addition to physical therapy.

  • Relocation and initial immobilization of the dislocated elbow
  • REST and ICE
  • The use of NSAIDS (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
  • Pain medication to reduce the discomfort and allow the patient to perform the recommended exercises

Prognosis

Most people recover full function following a course of conservative care of physical therapy to strengthen and stabilize the elbow.

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Real People, Real Testimonials.

"After a wrist/hand surgery, I completed 6 months of physical therapy at the TWIN BOROS - DAYTON NJ location with therapist James Battaglia. In the beginning I was in a great deal of pain with very limited range of motion. I was cringing from pain and using safe words lol. From day one, James gave me excellent care! He was very patient and listened to my cues. He crafted a full complement of exercises for me both in the office and also an at-home exercise program. Christa (sp) another therapist - also filled in for James during vacations and worked on my wrist. She too was excellent! The assistants and office staff are all super friendly and address every patient by their first name. You are not just a “patient” here. The staff all genuinely care about you. By the time I “graduated” 6 months later my wrist was doing so much better. I was actually sad to leave. This is a great facility- clean, modern and professional. You won’t be disappointed with this facility at all!"

Starr D.

“Never having experienced physical therapy before, I had no idea what to expect. I feel so fortunate that my experience has been totally positive. Everyone helped me feel so welcome and comfortable. I feel that I am being challenged, but not too much. I feel that I make an improvement at each session.”

Tora

"Eric was an excellent physical therapist. I made tremendous improvement during my time there. Rachel & Brittany were always smiling and creating a positive environment. Highly recommend using twinboro EHT!!!"

Ella G.

“Thanks to Twin Boro I can still engage in activities and sports that I would not be able to had I not received high quality PT.”

Mitchell

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