Hyperpronation: This reduction technique for a nursemaid's elbow (radial head subluxation) has been found to have better first attempt success than classic supination/flexion technique. (Pediatrics July '98). Support the elbow with a finger on the radial head, and forcefully hyperpronate.
- Technique may be less painful as well.
- Reexamine after five minutes, and normal function should be returned
- Xrays are generally unnecessary unless history and physical are not consistent with nursemaid's elbow, symptoms for greater than 12 hours, or reductions attempts are unsuccessful
- Supination/Flexion may be attempted after two failed hyperpronation attempts
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