Dislocations
Also known as: joint dislocation
What are dislocations?
When a joint in the body is injured in such a way that the bones are forced out of position, this is known as a dislocation. They can occur anywhere from the shoulder to the knee, and even the fingers and toes.
What causes dislocations?
An injury or accident that causes a sudden impact to the joint is the cause of a dislocation.
What are the symptoms of dislocations?
Severe pain, numbness, tingling, swelling, bruising and difficulty with movements are telltale signs of a dislocation. Sometimes, it’s clearly visible that the joints are out of alignment or misshapen.
What are dislocation care options?
In most cases, the doctor can reduce the bones back into position. A splint or sling might be needed to limit movement afterward until the joint heals. More severe dislocations might require surgery to correct.
Reviewed by: Craig Spurdle, MD
This page was last updated on: May 22, 2023 10:38 AM
Learn more about
Shoulder Dislocation
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, and this dislocation occurs frequently.
Nursemaid's Elbow
Nursemaid's elbow occurs when a child’s elbow gets pulled, causing it to dislocate partially.
Rotator Cuff Injury
The collection of tendons and muscles that surround the shoulder joint and hold the joint in position are known as the rotator cuff. Rotator cuff injuries can take a variety of forms, including tears, tendinitis from overuse, impingement and more.
Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains are two related but slightly different injuries. If the ligaments, which are bands of tissue that connect the bones in a joint get stretched or torn, this is a sprain. If a muscle or tendon, which are the bands of tissue that connects muscles to bones get stretched or torn, this is known as a strain.
Reduction
Unlike surgical techniques, reduction involves manually manipulating the dislocating bone back into its socket to correct the dislocation.