Nursemaid’s Elbow (Radial Head Subluxation)
Gentle, Effective Care for a Common Childhood Injury
A sudden pull—and now your child isn’t using their arm?
If your toddler suddenly stops using their arm or winces when it’s moved, they may be experiencing nursemaid’s elbow, also known as radial head subluxation. At Rehab Chamber, we assess this common injury and help guide families through next steps with compassion and clarity.
What is Nursemaid’s Elbow?
Nursemaid’s elbow occurs when the radial head (a bone in the forearm) slips slightly out of place at the elbow joint. It often happens when a young child is lifted or pulled by the hand or forearm—such as during play or when catching a fall.
This condition is most common in children under age 5, whose ligaments are still developing and more flexible.
Common signs include:
Refusing to use the affected arm
Holding the arm close to the body, slightly bent at the elbow
No swelling or bruising
Crying during arm movement but calm at rest
⚠️ When Does It Happen?
Lifting or swinging a child by the hands or wrists
Sudden jerking of the arm while walking
Rolling over awkwardly during play
Falls or minor trauma involving the arm
How Rehab Chamber May Be Able to Help
While reduction maneuvers are typically performed by physicians or at urgent care, our team at Rehab Chamber can evaluate joint mechanics and help guide post-reduction care, movement restoration, and education to prevent recurrence.
What we may offer:
Post-injury observation and reassurance
Joint and soft tissue assessments
Education for parents on safe handling
Referral to your pediatrician or appropriate provider if reduction is needed
Follow-up support after reduction (if already treated) to restore comfort and mobility
WE at Rehab Chamber do not perform reduction procedures for nursemaid’s elbow but may provide post-care guidance within EACH Therapists scope of practice.
Our team is experienced in musculoskeletal care and takes a calm, family-centered approach to treatment. We work closely with parents to help you understand the condition and support your child’s recovery with gentle, evidence-informed care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is nursemaid’s elbow an emergency?
Prompt care can quickly relieve discomfort. Many cases are resolved quickly with a gentle maneuver done by a healthcare professional (Medical Doctor).
Can I fix nursemaid’s elbow at home?
It’s not recommended. A trained healthcare provider should perform the reduction. If done incorrectly, it may cause further injury.
In most straightforward cases, no imaging is needed. If there is trauma or swelling, your provider may recommend further evaluation.
Does it need imaging or X-rays?
Yes, children who have had nursemaid’s elbow once are more likely to experience it again until around age 5. Educating caregivers on safe handling can help prevent recurrence.
Can this happen again?
In most cases, yes. Children typically resume using the arm within minutes after successful reduction, though some may need a little time or gentle reassurance.
Can my child use their arm right away after treatment?