The elbow joint is made up of 3 bones, the radius, ulna and humerus. Together these 3 bones provide the stability and mobility needed to do everyday tasks that we often take for granted. When a dislocation occurs, the joint itself and sometimes even the bones and ligaments surrounding it can be affected leading to significantly decreased function and pain.

The most common way to dislocate your elbow occurs when one falls on an outstretched hand. This often occurs during sports such as skiing, snowboarding or skateboarding, or in car accidents or a hard fall. The force of the fall travels from the hand and up the arm causing the bones, ligaments and other tissues that make up the joint to shift out of place. In severe or complex dislocations, there may even be nerve involvement that can cause numbness or tingling into the hand.

It is important to quickly receive medical attention to ensure that everything returns to the proper position in order to minimize damage. This treatment often includes reducing the dislocation and then bracing for stability and protection, followed by physical therapy. Physical therapy is crucial to regain the range of motion, strength and stability lost during the dislocation in order to return to everyday activities and sports.