Children lead active lives filled with sports, play, and exploration. While this is essential for their growth and development, it also exposes them to the risk of injuries, including elbow injuries. Understanding the types of elbow injuries that are common among children and the appropriate pediatric elbow care is vital for parents and caregivers.

Near Cornwall, Pennsylvania, Dr. Michael Bercik is a highly regarded elbow specialist dedicated to providing high-quality orthopedic care for his patients. Combining his exceptional expertise with an unwavering commitment to patient well-being, Dr. Bercik resolves many elbow conditions, helping patients of all ages restore function and alleviate discomfort.

Understanding Pediatric Elbow Care

Pediatric elbow care, distinct from adult care, demands specialized expertise. To care for children with elbow injuries, timely evaluation by a pediatric orthopedic expert like Dr. Bercik is crucial. Early diagnosis is key to preventing long-term complications. Imaging, including X-rays and MRI, may be needed for a precise assessment. In cases like nursemaid’s elbow, immediate reduction by a healthcare provider is essential. Treatment options range from conservative approaches like casting and physical therapy to potential surgical intervention, all aimed at ensuring proper healing and future complication prevention. Rehabilitation, involving physical therapy, aids in restoring strength, range of motion, and elbow function post-injury.

Common Elbow Injuries in Children

• Fractures: Fractures of the elbow are relatively common in children, often due to falls or sports-related accidents. The most common type of elbow fracture in children is a supracondylar humerus fracture, which occurs just above the elbow joint. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial to ensure healing and prevent long-term complications.
• Nursemaid’s Elbow: Nursemaid’s elbow, also known as radial head subluxation, is a common injury in young children. It typically occurs when a child’s arm is pulled or tugged, partially causing the radius bone to dislocate from the elbow joint. Immediate reduction by a healthcare provider is often required to correct the dislocation.
• Thrower’s Elbow: Young athletes who participate in sports involving repetitive throwing, such as baseball or softball, risk developing a thrower’s elbow. This condition can lead to overuse injuries like epicondylitis (inflammation of the tendons at the elbow) and stress fractures in the elbow.
• Little League Elbow: The Little League elbow is similar to the thrower’s elbow and is typically seen in young baseball pitchers. It results from the repetitive stress on the elbow’s medial (inner) side due to excessive pitching. Rest, modified throwing programs, and guidance from healthcare providers are essential for managing this condition.
• Olecranon Fractures: Olecranon fractures involve a break in the bony tip of the elbow (the olecranon). These fractures can result from a direct blow or a fall on the elbow and may sometimes require surgical intervention.

Let’s Work Together

Children’s elbow injuries are a common occurrence due to their active lifestyles. Identifying and addressing these injuries early with appropriate pediatric elbow care is crucial to ensure a full recovery and prevent long-term complications. Dr. Michael Bercik is an orthopedic expert specializing in elbows and is a valuable resource for parents seeking the best care for their children’s elbow injuries in the Cornwall, PA, area. To schedule an appointment, you can complete a request form online or call us at 717.560.4200.