What is the appropriate treatment for nursemaid's elbow?

Nursemaid's elbow, also known as radial head subluxation, is a common elbow injury in young children that occurs when the annular ligament becomes trapped over the radial head. The most effective treatment for this condition is the repositioning of the arm, which typically involves a specific maneuver that combines supination (turning the palm upward) and flexion (bending the elbow). This method not only alleviates the immediate discomfort but also corrects the displacement of the radial head, allowing the ligaments to return to their normal position.

This technique is straightforward and can often be performed in a primary care setting, making it an efficient first-line approach. After successful repositioning, the child's pain usually mitigates almost immediately, and they regain normal movement of the arm. The other treatment options, while relevant in other contexts, do not address the root cause of nursemaid's elbow effectively. For instance, immobilization with a splint is not appropriate since it does not resolve the subluxation. Application of ice and pain relief can provide comfort but does not correct the injury itself. Referral for surgical intervention may be necessary in complex cases or persistent subluxation, but it is not the first-line treatment for typical presentations of nursemaid's