A dislocation is an injury to a joint that occurs when the bones are partially or completely moved out of their usual positions. While any joint can be dislocated, joints in the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee are mostly affected. Read on to learn more about dislocations and how to treat and prevent them.
How Do Dislocations Occur?
Causes of dislocations include:
A direct blow to the joint resulting from a fall or accident
Overstretching or overuse of the joint
Congenital bone disease
Who Are at High Risk of a Dislocation?
While anyone can suffer a dislocation, those involved in contact sports, such as football or basketball, or who have weakened joints due to age or a medical condition are at high risk of dislocation.
How Do You Know If You Have a Dislocation?
The symptoms of a dislocation depend on the severity of the injury, which may include:
Pain
Swelling
Limited movement
Deformed, bruised, or discolored joint
Numbness or tingling sensation
How Is a Dislocated Joint Diagnosed?
A dislocation is usually diagnosed through a physical exam. The doctor will check the affected joint for tenderness, swelling, and deformity. X-rays may also be taken to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out fractures.
Treatments for a Dislocation
The treatment for a dislocation depends on the severity of the injury.
If your dislocation is mild, it can be reversed with closed reduction. A closed reduction procedure involves manually repositioning the dislocated joint. During the procedure, you will be given anesthesia to minimize pain and discomfort.
Following the procedure, an X-ray is performed to see whether the dislocated joint is properly repositioned. Once moved in place, the joint may be splinted or immobilized in a cast or brace to keep it in position while it heals.
Surgery may be needed to reposition the joint if:
The closed reduction procedure did not work
Your dislocation causes damage to the surrounding muscles, blood vessels, ligaments, or bones that need immediate attention
What Questions Should I Ask My Physician?
If you are diagnosed with a dislocation, ask your doctor about the treatment options available and the risks and benefits of each treatment option. You can also ask about the signs of complications you need to watch out for and how long it will take for the joint to heal.
When Can I Resume My Job?
The amount of time it takes to return to work after a dislocation depends on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment recommended. You can return to work after your joint has properly healed and the swelling and pain have subsided, which can take 12 to 16 weeks.
When Can My Child Return to School?
While generally, it can take 4-6 weeks for a child to return to school after a dislocation, the recovery period varies from one child to another depending on:
The area that has been dislocated
The extent of the dislocation
Recommended treatments
How to Prevent a Dislocation?
The best ways to prevent a dislocation are:
Wearing protective gear when playing sports
Avoiding activities that put a lot of strain on the joint, especially if you have weakened bones
Being cautious on stairs, uneven surfaces, and other sliding areas to prevent slips and falls
Exercising daily to strengthen your bones and muscles
Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the joints
What Is the Outlook Moving Forward?
Most dislocations can be successfully treated and the affected joint can be restored to full function. However, in some cases, the joint may be weakened, and conditions like arthritis and joint instability may develop.
So, you should seek immediate medical help as soon as your joint is dislocated or you experience any related symptoms. Waiting too long to get treatment can aggravate the symptoms, resulting in complications.
Get Prompt Joint Dislocation Treatment at Metro Urgent Care
At Metro Urgent Care, we are committed to delivering effective and appropriate treatment that helps return your bones to their actual positions. So, whether you suffer from partial dislocation (subluxation) or complete dislocation, visit us for prompt medical care and attention. You can also book an appointment online to avoid wait times.
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