Supination technique for reduction of radial head subluxation (nursemaid's elbow)

In the supination/flexion technique, the examiner supports the child's arm at the elbow and exerts moderate pressure on the radial head with the thumb or one finger. With the other hand, the examiner holds the child's distal forearm, and then pulls with gentle traction. While maintaining traction, the examiner fully supinates the child's forearm and then fully flexes the elbow in one smooth motion. A click may be felt by the finger over the radial head, or a pop may be heard by the examiner, when the subluxation is reduced.