The elbow joint technically comprises of three bones forming three sub-joints viz. the humeroulnar (of the humerus and ulna bone), humeroradial (of the humerus and the radius bone), and proximal radioulnar (of the radius and the ulna bone) joints. The combination of these joints enables the movements of the elbow joint.
An elbow dislocation occurs when the radius and ulna bones that form the forearm and the humerus bone, which forms the upper arm move out or away from their axial positions. Such dislocation may be partial or total depending on the impact of the traumatic external force.
Elbow dislocations are commonly caused by falling with the arm extended outwards during vehicle accidents, sports accidents or any other falling mishaps.
Partial and less severe elbow dislocations can be treated with a splint along with physical therapy and pain medications. Complete dislocations were even the bone, blood vessels and ligaments take some damage, may require an elbow alignment surgery.