When the bones in the elbow are pulled apart, it is known as the dislocated elbow. There are ligaments that keep the bones together. When there is a dislocated elbow, these ligaments get either stretched or they tear. When you get the elbow dislocation, the elbow might swell or become red. It will be painful and you will find it difficult to move. Elbows dislocate usually when you fall or outstretch your hand.

It is often advised to get the x-ray done. You might need the professional help to put the bones back into the socket. In some serious cases, there might be a need for surgery.

When there is a dislocated elbow, there are few things you can do at home. First thing is to apply the ice to the injury. You can do it for 10-20 minutes every hour. This should be done for one or two days. After that, you need to apply heat to the injury. This is done in order to reduce pain. You can either use the heating pad or hot towels for 15-20 minutes every hour.

You can do this for 2 day. After four days, if there is pain, you need to keep your arm elevated above the heart level. This will ease the pain to an extent and will also help to reduce the swelling. Follow the advice of your doctor and wear the splint as long as he says. The tightness of splint can be adjusted as per your comfort level. If your hand feels numb, just loosen it a bit.

At times, dislocated elbow can get serious. If the pain and swelling does not subside and instead become worse, it is time to call your doctor. Also, once you remove you splint, you find it difficult to move your arm or if the elbow bone has been dislocating quite often, it is advisable to seek the professional help.