Dislocations

A dislocation is where a bone has been pushed out of its normal position or joint. A dislocation can result from trauma or in some cases occurs spontaneously and can be resolved spontaneously.

You can dislocate your ankles, knees, shoulders, hips, elbows, and jaw. Dislocated joints often are swollen, very painful and visibly out of place.

All dislocations should be managed as potential fractures until proven otherwise. Therefore, you should never attempt to relocate the dislocation as it may further injure the site.

Recognition

• Severe pain and tenderness
• Deformity of the joint
• Loss of movement at the joint
• Numbness around the area

Management

• DO NOT attempt to put a dislocation back in place.
• Assist the casualty to support the dislocation in a position of comfort.
• Apply an ice compress to help reduce the swelling.
• Seek medical assistance.