Information for Parents

Our examination has revealed that your child has a ‘pulled elbow’.

This is not the same as a dislocation, but means that one of the ligaments in the elbow has slipped off the bone causing pain. This can sometimes happen if a child’s arm is pulled suddenly.

How is a pulled elbow treated?

The clinician can usually move the ligament back to its proper place. However, this means they have to move your child’s elbow, and it may be painful for a short period. Normally your child will be able to use the arm fairly soon after this.

How should I look after my child after treatment?

Please do give your child medicine such as junior paracetamol to relieve pain.

You should take your child to the nearest emergency department or telephone us if after 24 hours:

• Your child’s elbow is still sore
• Your child is not using the arm
• You are worried about them
• You think that it has happened again.

Please remember that your child might pull their elbow again, on either arm. In the future, make sure your child’s arm is not pulled and you avoid any games where the arms are swung.

Your child will stop being at risk of pulling their elbow when they are about 7 or 8 years old, as by this time their elbow has grown enough to prevent further episodes.

Further Information

If you need any more information or advice between the hours of 0800-2000 Monday-Sunday please call The Children’s Urgent Care Centre on 02073906150.

Out of hours please contact NHS 111.

Call NHS 111 if you need medical help fast, but its not life threatening- for example, if you:

• Think you need to go to hospital
• Don’t know who to call for medical help
• Don’t have a GP to call
• Need medical advice or reassurance about what to do next.

In case of emergency please call 999 or attend your local Children’s Emergency Department.