Dislocations

A dislocation is an injury that occurs in the joints, which are points where two or more bones come together. The shoulders, elbows, fingers, thumbs, hips, ankles and toes are common examples and are also the major sites for dislocations. In a dislocation, the ends of the bones connected to the joint are forced out of position. Dislocations are caused by a sudden trauma on the affected joint. They are common in contact sports such as football, hockey, or basketball and also any sport or activity where a severe fall could occur, such as biking, gymnastics, skateboarding, cheerleading and skiing. Dislocations also occur as a result of car or other traumatic accidents.

Symptoms include a visibly distorted joint, swelling, discoloration, intense pain, immobility, and tingling and numbness near the affected joint.

Dislocations require immediate medical attention in order to set the bones in their proper positions without harming the joint. The physician will set a program of pain management, immobization of the joint and rehabilitation. Most dislocated joints regain normal function within several weeks if cared for properly. Some have an increased chance of re-injury.