Pure elbow dislocation in a child wrestler with underlying hyperlaxity: what is the optimal time to return to competition?

Abstract

Elbow dislocations are often considered serious injuries that can cause a child athlete to miss the entire season in wrestling. It was reported that the return to sports after the elbow dislocation was between 6 and 12 months in child wrestlers. In some cases, underlying hyperlaxity may have an essential role in the occurrence of pure elbow dislocation without any ligament injury. We report the case of a 10-year-old boy patient who had pure elbow dislocation following falling onto an outstretched hand in a wrestling match. Because the physical examination findings of the patient indicated the presence of hyperlaxity, the patient was treated by closed reduction, short-term immobilization, and early strengthening of the dynamic stabilizers. This case report’s findings suggest that detecting the presence of hyperlaxity in this specific patient group is crucial since this patient group has the potential to return to competitions 6 weeks after injury, unlike patients without hyperlaxity.

Hypermobility prevalence, measurements, and outcomes in childhood, adolescence, and emerging adulthood: a systematic review

“…Physical health 4. Mental health Pacey, 2013 [ 88 ] Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation 5–14 Incontinence symptoms Salem, 2010 [ 97 ] Rehabilitation Strengthening and stability training 16 Chest pain Nash, 2017 [ 79 ] Strengthening and stability training 10 Elbow stability, strength and function Karademir, 2022 [ 68 ] Orthopedic aids Neoprene Wrist/hand splints 14 None Frohlich, 2012 [ 53 ] Foot orthotics 5–15 1. Gait synchrony 2.…”

“…Two studies were case studies looking to rehabilitate children with a specific complaint and underlying GJH, both offered a strengthening and stability training program and reported patients’ full recovery [ 68 , 79 ].…”