Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation in Ottawa is a trusted physiotherapy clinic specializing in radial head subluxation, commonly known as “nursemaid’s elbow”. Our clinic is known for providing gentle, innovative, and personalized physiotherapy care tailored specifically for young children. Our goal is to ensure a quick and non-invasive recovery, allowing every child to resume their daily activities comfortably and effortlessly.

Understanding Radial Head Subluxation

Radial head subluxation happens when the ligament supporting the radial head (near the elbow) shifts out of place, usually due to a sudden pull on an extended arm. This condition is most common in children under five years old and is characterized by immediate pain and a reluctance to use the affected arm.

Causes and Risk Factors

Main causes of radial head subluxation are:

• A sudden tug or lift of a child’s arm.
• A direct impact or fall on the elbow.
• Activities that may strain or jerk a child’s arm suddenly.

Recognizing these factors is crucial for both preventing and early detection of radial head subluxation.

Examining the Symptoms

Signs of radial head subluxation in children typically include:

• Immediate pain or discomfort in the affected arm.
• Reluctance or inability to use the arm.
• Keeping the arm bent close to the body.

Early identification and treatment are essential for a speedy and complete recovery.

Treating Radial Head Subluxation Through Physiotherapy

At Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation, we prioritize physiotherapy as a key treatment for radial head subluxation, offering a safe and efficient path to recovery.

Effective Physiotherapy Approaches

Our treatment plan includes:

• Gentle Mobilization: Using non-invasive methods to carefully realign the radial head and relieve discomfort.
• Rehabilitative Exercises: Developing personalized exercise routines to gradually restore strength and flexibility to the affected arm, ensuring a quick return to normal function.
• Educational Prevention: Equipping caregivers with essential information to prevent future incidents, such as safe handling practices and suitable activities for children.

Our physiotherapy approach not only addresses the immediate issue but also promotes overall arm health and reduces the chances of recurrence.

Comprehensive Care and Assistance

In addition to immediate physiotherapy interventions, Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation provides:

• Post-Treatment Monitoring: Ensuring ongoing arm health and functionality through follow-up evaluations and adjustments to the care plan as necessary.
• Family-Centered Guidance: Providing comprehensive support to families, including education on the condition and its management, to create a safe and nurturing environment for recovery.

Discover Our Range of Services

At Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation, we offer a variety of therapeutic options tailored to address the unique challenges of discomfort and pain. Our facility prides itself on delivering personalized, attentive care, supported by a team well-versed in the complexities of various conditions.

• Physiotherapy Clinic
• Chiropractic Care
• Custom Made Insoles
• Massage Therapists
• Cupping Therapy
• Shockwave Treatment
• Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Care
• Physiotherapy for Motor Vehicle Accidents
• GLA:D Program
• Holistic Nutritionist

Why Choose Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation?

Opting for Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation for radial head subluxation treatment means entrusting your child’s well-being to a team that prioritizes health and speedy recovery. Our focus on pediatric physiotherapy ensures top-notch care tailored to meet the specific needs of young children and their families.

• Specialized Pediatric Physiotherapy: Our experts are proficient in pediatric physiotherapy, providing gentle and effective treatment.
• Personalized Care Plans: Each individual receives a customized treatment plan designed for their unique situation, promoting faster recovery.
• Supportive, Holistic Approach: We extend beyond treatment to offer education and support to families, ensuring a holistic recovery experience.

Don’t Allow Pain to Hinder Your Child’s Mobility

If your child displays symptoms of radial head subluxation, Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation in Ottawa is prepared to help. Our dedicated team is committed to providing the necessary physiotherapy care for a swift and seamless recovery. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and initiate your child’s healthy and active return to daily life.

Effective Solutions for Various Arm Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions about Radial Head Subluxation Treatment in Ottawa

What Is the Typical Recovery Time for Radial Head Subluxation?

Recovery duration from radial head subluxation varies but is generally swift, especially with timely and appropriate treatment. Most children experience immediate relief after realigning the radial head and can resume normal activities within a few days. However, complete recovery, including regaining full strength and preventing recurrence, may require several weeks of physiotherapy. During this period, specific exercises and preventive measures are implemented to fully restore the elbow’s function and flexibility. Regular check-ins with a physiotherapist ensure the recovery process stays on course and adjusts the treatment plan as needed.

Can Radial Head Subluxation Recur?

Yes, radial head subluxation can happen again, especially in children aged 1 to 4 years, who are at higher risk due to the elasticity of the ligaments around their elbows. Recurrences often occur due to similar situations that caused the initial subluxation, such as swinging by the arms or a sudden pull. Preventive measures, including educating caregivers and children about safe handling and avoiding activities that strain the elbow, are crucial. Physiotherapy also helps strengthen the area and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

What Measures Can Be Taken to Prevent Radial Head Subluxation?

Preventive steps for radial head subluxation focus on avoiding scenarios that exert excessive force on a child’s arm. Caregivers are advised against pulling or lifting children by their hands or arms, avoiding swinging them by their arms, and teaching them to play safely. Additionally, strengthening exercises and activities that enhance proprioception and coordination can be beneficial. These exercises, often introduced during physiotherapy sessions, aim to build resilience in the elbow joint and surrounding muscles, making it less vulnerable to subluxation from sudden pulls or twists.

How Can Parents and Caregivers Support Their Child’s Recovery?

Parents and caregivers play a vital role in their child’s recovery from radial head subluxation. Supporting recovery involves following the physiotherapist’s instructions for home exercises and modifying activities to ensure recovery and prevent re-injury. Creating a safe environment that minimizes the risk of falls or sudden pulls on the arm is essential. Emotional support is also crucial; encouraging the child to express their feelings about the injury and recovery can help manage any fear or reluctance to use the affected arm. Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider will monitor the recovery process and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.

Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation
1535 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1H 7Z1, Canada
(613) 728-9414

Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 8 AM – 7:30 PM
Friday: 8 AM – 8 PM
Saturday: 10 AM – 2 PM
Sunday: Closed