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What is Joint Dislocation? A Comprehensive Guide

QI Spine Clinic, 1 week ago

Joint dislocation means joint misalignment. It means when the joints get pushed out from their normal position or place. There are numerous joints all over the human body that provide support to the body. Dislocation may occur in any joint. It can cause pain in the affected joint and can also make it impossible to move it properly. Read further to understand what is joint dislocation, its types, causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Different Types of Dislocations

Dislocations are divided into two types based on how far the bones got dislocated:
  • Complete Dislocation (Luxation): A complete dislocation of the joint means that the bones in the joint are completely separated or pushed out of the original position. 
  • Subluxation: Partial dislocation of the joint is called subluxation. This occurs when the joint is pulled apart, but the bones still touch, although not completely as usual. 

Causes of Joint Dislocation

A dislocation may be caused by a force that pushes a joint out of its normal position. Common causes of joint dislocation are:
  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Sports injuries
  • Falls

Risk Factors

Some groups are at a greater risk of dislocations, such as:
  • People who play contact sports.
  • People older than 60 years or young children are more prone to dislocations due to weakness of ligaments. 
  • People who suffer from Ehlers-Danios syndrome, in which connective tissues such as tendons, ligaments, and muscles become weak, are prone to dislocations.
  • People having dislocations in the past are also at a greater risk of dislocation. The dislocation may occur at the same site with a mild blow or force.
  • People operating heavy machinery are also at a higher risk of dislocation. 

Symptoms of Joint Dislocation

Symptoms depend on the joint involved and the severity of the dislocation. Common symptoms are:
  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Bruising
  • The joint looks different and out of its original position
  • Inability to move the joint
  • Weakness of the joint
  • Numbness and tingling at the site

Diagnosis

The orthopaedic doctor will make a diagnosis with a physical examination. The doctor will examine the affected joint and the area surrounding it. If you are experiencing any symptoms, then tell to the doctor.  The doctor may recommend some tests to diagnose the damage to the tissues and the degree of dislocation. The orthopaedic doctor may recommend X-rays, MRIs, CT Scans, and an ultrasound to diagnose the problem properly and effectively.

Treatment of Joint Dislocation

Treatment of joint dislocation includes putting the joint back into its original position. The orthopaedic doctor will carefully push or pull the dislocated joint to move it back into its place. The doctor may give you anaesthesia before doing the procedure. Other treatments include the following:
  • Immobilisation: The doctor may advise you to wear a sling, splint, or brace to make the joint immobile and get it healed.
  • Medications: The doctor may recommend pain and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling around the joint.
  • Rest: The doctor will ask you to take complete rest and avoid movement of the joint as it may put stress on the affected joint. 

Surgical Treatment

In some cases, if there is damage inside the tissues, then you may need surgery. Severe dislocation is corrected with surgery that helps reset the joint and place it back to its original position. 

Conclusion

A joint dislocation is a common problem seen in sports people and after accidents. It simply means that the joint gets out of its normal position. A dislocated joint may cause severe pain. The affected joint becomes immovable. It is important to visit an orthopaedic doctor if you feel that your joint is dislocated. An orthopaedic doctor can diagnose the patient by performing the required tests and suggesting the best possible treatment. 

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FAQs

 How much time does it take to heal a dislocated joint?

The healing time of a dislocated joint depends on the degree of dislocation and the type of joint involved. If there is subluxation, then it will heal in one or two weeks with proper rest. If there is a complete dislocation, it may take more time to heal completely. In severe cases, surgery may be required, and it takes several weeks to months to heal properly.

 How can I prevent a dislocation of the joint while playing sports?

If you are a sports person, then you can prevent a dislocation in joint by taking the following precautions:

  • Adequate warm-up is required before doing strenuous activity.
  • Wear protective equipment to reduce the risk of dislocation.
  • If you feel pain in any joint, avoid doing physical exercise or playing a sport.
  • Take proper rest after doing intense activity.

Should I go to an orthopaedic doctor or a physiotherapist for a dislocation of the joint?

If you have a severe dislocation, you should visit an orthopaedic doctor because an orthopaedic doctor can diagnose the problem easily and suggest you the best remedy. A physiotherapist can suggest the exercises that may be required after complete healing of a dislocated joint. 

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