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EmergenciesIllustrated guide

A child not using an arm: possible pulled elbow

Three illustrated messages on a child not using an arm, assessment and avoiding traction. It does not demonstrate reduction manoeuvres.

A toddler keeping an unused arm close to the body, observed by the mother and doctor. — The child protects an arm
Pulled elbow is one possibility, even without a remembered pull. Not every unused arm has this diagnosis.

A toddler keeping an unused arm close to the body, observed by the mother and doctor. — The child protects an arm
Pulled elbow is one possibility, even without a remembered pull. Not every unused arm has this diagnosis.

A child on the father's lap during assessment of the arm; the doctor is not performing a reduction manoeuvre. — Seek assessment
Do not try to put the elbow back yourself. A clinician checks for other injuries and decides on treatment.

A child on the father's lap during assessment of the arm; the doctor is not performing a reduction manoeuvre. — Seek assessment
Do not try to put the elbow back yourself. A clinician checks for other injuries and decides on treatment.

A mother lifting her child with support under the armpits and around the trunk, without pulling the hands or wrists. — Avoid pulling the arms
Do not lift or swing a child by the hands or wrists. Support the trunk and under the armpits.

A mother lifting her child with support under the armpits and around the trunk, without pulling the hands or wrists. — Avoid pulling the arms
Do not lift or swing a child by the hands or wrists. Support the trunk and under the armpits.

General information; this guide does not replace an individual medical assessment.

Dr Daniele Priano — Paediatric orthopaedics

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