A dislocation is an injury in which the end of a bone moves out of its normal position. Causes are usually injuries from falls, car crashes, contact, or high-speed sports collision.
Dislocations usually affect large joints in the body. In adults, the most common site of injury is the shoulder. Elbows in children. The thumb and other fingers are also vulnerable to injury if they are forced to bend.
Injuries can temporarily deform and immobilize a joint, causing sudden, severe pain and swelling. Dislocations require immediate medical attention to relocate the bone.
Don’t neglect medical care:- Get immediate medical help.
Don’t move the joint:- Splinted the affected joint is in a fixed position until help is available. Do not move the dislocated joint or try to put it back in place. This can damage the joint and surrounding muscles, ligaments, nerves, or blood vessels.
Apply ice on the injured joint:- This can reduce swelling by controlling internal bleeding and fluid buildup in and around the injured joint.
HOW COMMON IS A DISLOCATION?
Dislocations are very common. Although it can occur in any joint of the body, the following joints are most commonly affected :
- Finger
- Shoulder
- Knee
- Elbow
- Hip
- Jaw
WHAT CAUSES IT?
A dislocation can be caused due to trauma that knocks a joint out of place. This injury often happens due to slips and falls, football and other contact sports, and auto accidents.
Dislocations can also happen while doing daily tasks if the muscles and tendons that surround the joint are fragile. Due to their weaker muscles and balance concerns, elderly people are more at risk to get these injuries.
HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?
By examining and moving the joint, along with questions on the injury’s source, your doctor may determine if you have a dislocation.
The doctor will occasionally take an X-ray of your bones to perform an imaging test. The doctor can use this technique to determine the perfect position and extent of the dislocation.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
In most cases, you can actually see the dislocation. However, this is not always the case. Dislocations usually have specific signs, such as :
- Loss of motion
- Visible deformity
- Pain during movement
- Tingling or numbness
- Bruising
Anyone can experience a dislocation, but some people are at higher risk, including the elderly, young children, and athletes. Once a dislocation has occurred, it is likely to recur at some point in the future.
Because a dislocated bone is no longer where it should be, you should consult a doctor very soon. Most dislocations improve with timely treatment after several weeks of rest and therapy. However, if therapy is put off, you might end up with nerve, ligament, and blood vessel damage.
Visit your nearest Specialty Care Clinics Urgent Care if you think you may have a dislocation. Dislocations can be correctly diagnosed and treated by our medical personnel. Usually, they will start by inspecting the area to look for deformities, circulation issues, and broken skin. Our specialists will request an X-ray if they believe there may be a dislocation. If a dislocation is identified, you will either be given treatment right away or given a suggestion for more testing.