May also be called: Annular Ligament Displacement; Pulled Elbow; Radial Head Subluxation Nursemaid's elbow is a common elbow injury in young kids. It happens when a ligament slips out of place and gets caught between two bones of the elbow joint. More to Know Nursemaid's elbow is a common, often preventable injury that's usually due to sudden pulling on a child's arm. Most cases are in kids 1 to 4 years years old. Their ligaments (the elastic-like bands that hold bones together) are a bit loose. With just a small amount of force, a ligament in the elbow can easily slip into the joint and get stuck. Sometimes the ligament gets unstuck by itself. In most cases, a health care professional gets it back into place by doing a quick, gentle move of the arm called a reduction. Keep in Mind Nursemaid's elbow is a common injury in toddlers and preschoolers. As kids get older, the ligaments tighten. Most won't get nursemaid's elbow past age 5, though it can happen up to age 6 or 7. It's important to try to prevent it by not pulling, tugging, or swinging a child by the arms or hands. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles Nursemaid's Elbow Young kids are at risk for a common injury known as nursemaid's elbow, which is easy for a doctor to fix. To help prevent it, never swing or lift a child by the lower arm, hands, or wrists. Read More X-Ray Exam: Elbow An elbow X-ray can help find the cause of symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, or a deformity. It can also help to detect broken bones or a dislocated joint. Read More A to Z: Fracture, Elbow Fractured (broken) elbows are a common injury in kids and teens. Read More A to Z: Contusion (Bruise), Elbow Learn more about elbow contusions (bruises). Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.