What is the term for a radial head subluxation in a young child following pulling on an arm?

What is the term for a radial head subluxation in a young child following pulling on an arm?

• A. Fracture of the humerus
• B. Subluxation of the radial head
• C. Inflammation at the lateral epicondyle
• D. Inflammation of the medial epicondyle

Answer: (B)

When a young child is pulled by the arm, the radial head can slip under the annular ligament, producing a radial head subluxation. This is the situation commonly known as nursemaid's elbow. The term reflects the mechanism—a sudden traction on the forearm leads to a partial dislocation of the radial head rather than a true fracture. It’s not a fracture of the humerus, and it’s not inflammation of the epicondyles. Typically, the child avoids using the arm, holds it close to the body, and pain is present but there’s no gross deformity. A gentle reduction, usually by supinating the forearm with the elbow extended, often relieves the symptoms quickly.

When a young child is pulled by the arm, the radial head can slip under the annular ligament, producing a radial head subluxation. This is the situation commonly known as nursemaid's elbow. The term reflects the mechanism—a sudden traction on the forearm leads to a partial dislocation of the radial head rather than a true fracture. It’s not a fracture of the humerus, and it’s not inflammation of the epicondyles. Typically, the child avoids using the arm, holds it close to the body, and pain is present but there’s no gross deformity. A gentle reduction, usually by supinating the forearm with the elbow extended, often relieves the symptoms quickly.