Dislocations

Joint dislocations happen when the bones that form a joint like the shoulder, hip, knee or wrist are forced out of position by an unnatural movement or some sort of trauma. A dislocated joint is often characterized by significant pain along with physical deformity, immobility, swelling and discoloration. Finger joints are very subject to dislocation, particularly during sports activities like basketball and gymnastics. It’s important to seek medical help for a joint dislocation to avoid or treat possible complications such as nerve damage and tears to the surrounding muscles, tendons and ligaments. Depending on the location and severity of a dislocated joint, treatments may include simply pushing the bones back into place, immobilization with a splint or sling, surgical correction, and/or physical therapy to rehabilitate the joint.