CLAIM:
Pulling or lifting a young child by the arms can cause a condition known as nursemaid’s elbow, where the elbow joint slips out of place. Even minor actions like swinging or tugging a child’s arm may lead to this injury due to fragile, developing joints.
FACT:
True. Pulling or lifting a young child by the arms can cause nursemaid’s elbow - a common partial dislocation in toddlers due to their still-developing joints. Experts suggest lifting children safely by supporting them under the arms and avoiding pulling or swinging them by the hands or wrists.
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In a viral Instagram post by the ‘Motherpostbaby’ handle, which has over 24.7k followers, concerns have been raised about the risks of pulling or lifting young children by their arms. The post highlights a common parenting practice that may seem harmless but could potentially lead to injury.
In the caption, it is mentioned that, “Be careful when lifting or pulling a young child by their arms. Nursemaid’s elbow (also called pulled elbow) happens when a sudden tug, jerk, stretch, or swing causes one of the bones in the elbow to slip out of place.” It further explains that this condition is common in toddlers “because their joints are still developing and more fragile,” adding that even “a playful swing or quick pull to stop a fall can cause it.”
The post advises caregivers to change how they lift children, stating that they should “always lift children from under their arms instead of by their hands or wrists.”
The post has received over 10.5k likes and 72.4k shares, gaining significant attention online and prompting a closer look at whether the claim is medically accurate.
Can pulling or lifting a child by the arms dislocate the elbow?
Medical evidence shows that pulling or lifting a young child by the arms can, in some cases, lead to a condition known as nursemaid’s elbow (radial head subluxation), though it is typically a partial dislocation rather than a full one.
A 2009 study on paediatric trauma highlights that this is a common and preventable injury in young children, particularly affecting the elbow joint. The study notes that “nursemaid's elbow is a common injury in young children that can often be prevented,” explaining that it occurs when “the radial head subluxates from its normal position at the elbow joint.” It further adds that everyday actions such as “swinging a child by the hands or pulling on the pronated upper extremity can cause nursemaid's elbow,” underlining the role of sudden pulling movements in triggering the injury.
Supporting this, Mayo Clinic also explains that even minimal force can be enough. “Sometimes all it takes is a little tug — when you're helping toddlers down a step, pulling them back from a dangerous situation, lifting them into a high chair, or playing by swinging them by their arms or hands.” The institution clarifies that the condition occurs when “the annular ligament in the elbow is displaced by being pulled,” adding that young children are especially vulnerable because “their elbows are much more flexible than those of adults.”
The condition is most common in children between the ages of 1 and 4, and while it can be painful, it is usually treatable without surgery.
“Once a child has had nursemaid's elbow, it can happen again. That's why it's important to avoid swinging, tugging or pulling children by the hands or arms. Always lift them by grasping them under their armpits,” it adds.
How do you know your child has this condition?
Recognising nursemaid’s elbow can be challenging, as it often does not present with obvious physical signs like swelling or deformity.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, one of the clearest indicators is the context in which the pain begins. “The most obvious sign is that the pain starts after the child has been pulled or lifted by the arms.” Children with this condition typically hold their arm close to their body and may refuse to use or bend it due to discomfort.
Unlike fractures, nursemaid’s elbow usually does not cause visible swelling. The clinic cautions that if symptoms follow a fall or if there are visible signs like swelling or deformity, it may indicate a more serious injury. In such cases, immediate medical attention is necessary.
Doctors also stress the importance of proper diagnosis. As advised, “If there’s any question at all whether it’s nursemaid’s elbow or not, seek medical care and get an X-ray for the child.”
While some simple manoeuvres may help relieve the condition, medical consultation is recommended, especially if the child is in significant pain or if the diagnosis is uncertain.
Best way to lift a child safely: Expert insight
Dr Nishant Bansal, Consultant Paediatrician & Neonatologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, emphasised that safe handling plays a crucial role in preventing such injuries. He advised that children should always be lifted with proper support rather than by their arms.
“To lift a baby safely, ensure you support them from under the arms, placing your hands around their chest or under their armpits,” he said. He further stressed that in younger infants, “the head and neck must also be supported along with the body.”
Dr Bansal cautioned caregivers against unsafe practices, noting that one should “strictly not pull, swing, or lift a child by the hands or wrists.” Instead, he recommended lifting gently and steadily, keeping the child close to the body to avoid strain or injury.
This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS