Elbow Dislocation eMedicine

Description: Article by Mark E Halstead, MD 2007
Elbow dislocation is the most common dislocation in children, and in adults, it is the second most common dislocation after that of the shoulder. The elbow is amazingly stable, relying more on bony anatomy configuration for stability rather than ligaments. Considerable force is necessary to dislocate the elbow; sports activities account for up to 50% of elbow dislocations, and this type of injury is more commonly seen in adolescent and young adult populations.
Synonyms and related keywords: radial head dislocation, ulnar dislocation, radial head subluxation, FOOSH injury, nursemaid's elbow