Nursemaid’s Elbow: A Common Childhood Injury

Treatment for Nursemaid’s Elbow

When it comes to treating Nursemaid’s elbow, there are a few options available. It is important to note that this condition can sometimes resolve on its own, even without any intervention. This can be confusing for caretakers, especially when they take the child to the doctor and the symptoms seem to spontaneously disappear.

In most cases, the doctor will gently move the bones back into place without the need for any pain medication. During this procedure, a pop or click may occur as the joint goes back into its proper position. While the child may experience some pain during the realignment process, it typically resolves quickly once the joint is back in place.


Recovery: What to Expect After Joint Adjustment

When a doctor adjusts a joint, the recovery process is typically swift, although some children may take a few minutes to register the relief from pain. In most cases, children regain the use of their arms within ten minutes, and around 90 percent experience no symptoms within half an hour. However, if a child does not regain full arm functionality promptly, further imaging may be necessary, along with a visit to an orthopedic surgeon.

4 of 5