Joint
dislocation
occurs when bones in a joint become displaced or misaligned.
It is often caused by a sudden impact to the joint. The ligaments
always become damaged as a result of a dislocation.
Once
a joint is dislocated, it may return to its proper position
on its own, or it may require physical manipulation. Such manipulation,
if improperly attempted, can greatly increase the severity of
the injury.
When
A Dislocation Treatment Delays
Delay in treatment of a dislocation may affect blood supply,
ligaments, bone and joint structures, sometimes resulting in
permanent disability.
As
with most medical conditions, expert help should be sought as
soon as possible. Once reduction is achieved, the joint may
be held in place through a splint (for straight joints like
fingers and toes) or a bandage (for complex joints like shoulders).
Shoulder injuries can be surgically stabilized, for example
using arthroscopic surgery.
Treatment
Dislocations often require immediate medical attention. After
a dislocation caution should be exercised and the joint structures
stabilized and muscles strengthened. This will help reduce the
chances of repetition.
The
shoulders, fingers, knees, and wrists are all common places
for a dislocation to occur.
Having
a dislocation increases the risk of a re-occurrence. Constant
dislocations can be treated via surgery or strengthening the
structures surrounding the dislocated area, normally through
exercise.
Frequent,
or spontaneous dislocations may also be symptomatic of a serious
medical condition, such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
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