Affinity Wellness, your trusted Kelowna physiotherapy clinic, specializes in treating radial head subluxation or ‘nursemaid’s elbow’ in kids. Known for gentle, innovative, and personalized care, we’re committed to facilitating non-invasive recovery for children, ensuring a swift return to their daily activities with ease and comfort.

Understanding Radial Head Subluxation

Radial head subluxation occurs when the ligament that holds the radial head (near the elbow) slips out of place, typically due to a sudden pull on an extended arm. This condition is most commonly seen in children under the age of five and is characterized by immediate pain and a refusal to use the affected arm.

Causes and Risk Factors

The main contributors to radial head subluxation include:

• Sudden pulling or lifting of a child’s arm.
• A direct blow to the elbow or a fall that impacts the arm.
• Any activity that might result in a sudden jerk or strain on a child’s arm.

Awareness of these factors is crucial for both preventing radial head subluxation and recognizing it early when it occurs.

A Closer Look at the Symptoms

Children with radial head subluxation typically exhibit:

• Immediate discomfort or pain in the affected arm.
• An unwillingness or inability to use the arm.
• Holding the arm bent against the body.

Prompt recognition and treatment are key to ensuring a fast and full recovery.

Treating Radial Head Subluxation With Physiotherapy

At Affinity Wellness, we prioritize physiotherapy as a cornerstone of treatment for radial head subluxation, offering a safe and effective path to recovery.

Effective Physiotherapy Techniques

Our treatment strategy includes:

• Gentle Mobilization: Employing non-invasive techniques to carefully realign the radial head and alleviate discomfort.
• Rehabilitative Exercises: Designing customized exercise programs to gradually restore strength and flexibility to the affected arm, ensuring a swift return to normal function.
• Preventive Education: Providing caregivers with vital information on how to prevent future incidents, including safe handling practices and appropriate activities for children.

Our physiotherapy approach not only addresses the immediate issue but also promotes overall arm health and prevents recurrences.

Comprehensive Care and Support

Beyond immediate physiotherapy interventions, Affinity Wellness offers:

• Post-Treatment Monitoring: Ensuring continued arm health and functionality through follow-up assessments and adjustments to the care plan as needed.
• Family-centred Guidance: Offering comprehensive support to families, including education on the condition and its management, to foster a safe and nurturing environment for recovery.

Explore Our Diverse Services 

At Affinity Wellness, we present a diverse suite of therapeutic options specifically designed to tackle the distinct complexities of discomfort and pain. Our facility prides itself on providing personalized, attentive care, supported by a team that is well-versed in the intricacies of different conditions.

• Massage Therapy
• Physiotherapy Clinic
• Chiropractic Care
• Kinesiology
• Registered Dietitian
• Counselling
• Occupational Therapy
• Shockwave Therapy Treatment
• Manual Osteopathy

Why Affinity Wellness?

Choosing Affinity Wellness for radial head subluxation treatment means entrusting your child’s care to a team that values health and rapid recovery. Our focus on physiotherapy for pediatric conditions ensures the highest level of care, tailored to meet the unique needs of our young children and their families.

• Pediatric Physiotherapy Expertise: Our professionals are well-versed in pediatric physiotherapy, providing gentle, effective treatment.
• Individualized Care Plans: Every individual receives a personalized treatment strategy designed for their specific situation, promoting faster recovery.
• Supportive, Holistic Approach: We go beyond treatment to offer education and support to families, ensuring a comprehensive recovery experience.

Don’t Let Pain Hold Your Little Ones Behind

If your child is experiencing symptoms of radial head subluxation, Affinity Wellness in Kelowna is ready to assist. Our dedicated team is committed to providing the physiotherapy care needed for a swift and smooth recovery. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards your child’s healthy, active return to daily life.

Effective Treatment for Different Arm Conditions

Radial Head Subluxation Treatment Kelowna FAQs

How Long Does Recovery from Radial Head Subluxation Typically Take?

Recovery time from radial head subluxation can vary but is generally quick, especially with prompt and appropriate treatment. Most children experience immediate relief after the radial head is realigned and can return to normal activities within a few days. However, the total recovery period, including regaining full strength and preventing recurrence, may involve a few weeks of physiotherapy. During this time, specific exercises and preventive measures are applied to fully restore the elbow’s function and flexibility. Close follow-up with a physiotherapist ensures the recovery process is on track and adjusts the treatment plan as needed.

Can Radial Head Subluxation Happen More Than Once?

Yes, radial head subluxation can recur, particularly in children between the ages of 1 and 4 years, who are at the highest risk due to the ligaments around their elbows being more elastic. Recurrences are often due to similar circumstances that caused the initial subluxation, such as being swung by the arms or a sudden pull. Preventive measures, including educating caregivers and children on safe handling and avoiding activities that put stress on the elbow, are crucial. Physiotherapy also plays a role in strengthening the area and reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

What Preventive Measures Can Be Taken to Avoid Radial Head Subluxation?

Preventive measures for radial head subluxation focus on avoiding situations that put excessive force on a child’s arm. Caregivers are advised not to pull or lift children by their hands or arms, to prevent swinging them by their arms, and to educate them about playing 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 susceptible to subluxation from sudden pulls or twists.

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

Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in their child’s recovery from radial head subluxation. Supporting recovery involves following the physiotherapist’s guidance for home exercises and activity modifications 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. Additionally, emotional support is vital; 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.

Affinity Wellness
1890 Ambrosi Rd Suite 2, Kelowna, BC V1Y 4R9, Canada
(778) 478-0548

Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 8 AM – 8PM
Friday & Saturday: 8 AM – 3 PM
Sunday: Closed