Understanding a Pulled Elbow

A pulled elbow is a common injury in young children, usually affecting those under five years of age. It happens when one of the forearm bones (the radius) partially slips out of its normal position at the elbow. Although it can be painful, it is a minor injury that is usually treated quickly, and most children make a full recovery within a few days.

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What Causes a Pulled Elbow?

A pulled elbow happens because the ligaments around a young child’s elbow are still developing and are naturally looser than in older children.

Common causes include:

• Holding hands while a child suddenly pulls away.
• Lifting a child by one hand.
• Pulling an arm through a sleeve when dressing.
• Swinging a child by their hands or arms.
• Occasionally after a fall or rolling onto the arm.

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Common Symptoms

Your child may:

• Cry suddenly after the injury.
• Hold their arm still by their side.
• Be unwilling or unable to bend the elbow.
• Seem reluctant to use the affected arm.
• Experience pain when the arm is moved.

Some children may also hear or feel a small “click” or “pop” when the injury occurs.

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How Is It Treated?

A healthcare professional can usually diagnose a pulled elbow by asking how the injury happened and examining your child’s arm.

Treatment usually involves:

• A gentle manoeuvre to move the radius back into its correct position.
• The procedure only takes a few seconds.
• There may be a brief moment of discomfort.
• Many children begin using their arm again within minutes, although for some it can take a few hours.

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After Treatment

Following successful treatment:

• Encourage your child to use their arm normally.
• If the elbow feels sore, simple pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen may help (if suitable for your child).
• Most children recover completely within 2–3 days.

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Preventing Another Pulled Elbow

To reduce the chance of the injury happening again:

• Lift your child under their arms or around their upper body rather than by their hands.
• Avoid swinging games that involve holding their hands.
• Avoid pulling sharply on your child’s arm.
• Encourage family members and carers to follow the same advice.

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When to Seek Medical Advice

Seek further medical advice if:

• Your child is still not using their arm after 2–3 days.
• Their pain or swelling is getting worse.
• You are concerned they may have another injury.

Your healthcare professional may arrange an X-ray if another injury is suspected.

For urgent medical advice that is not life-threatening, call NHS 111.