Prognosis
Long-Term Outlook for Nursemaid’s Elbow Injury
While a nursemaid’s elbow injury can heal completely with proper treatment, children who have experienced this type of injury are at a higher risk of it happening again. The initial injury causes stretching of the ligaments, which weakens the joint and increases the likelihood of it slipping out of place in the future. However, as the child’s bones and ligaments continue to develop over the years, these structures will fit together more tightly, reducing the chances of recurrence over time.
Preventing Nursemaid’s Elbow
Preventing nursemaid’s elbow is crucial, especially in children who have previously experienced the injury. Parents and caregivers should exercise caution and avoid certain actions that may cause a reinjury to the joint. Instead of pulling children by their hands, it is advisable to lift them from under the arms. Additionally, activities such as swinging, holding, or pulling by the arms and hands should be avoided to minimize the risk of nursemaid’s elbow.