Dislocation

Table of Contents

Other names

Joint Dislocation
Luxation
Dislocated Joint
Joint Misalignment

Synopsis

Dislocation occurs when the bones in a joint are forced out of their normal position, typically due to trauma, falls, or sudden impact. It can affect any joint but most commonly occurs in the shoulder, fingers, elbows, knees, jaw, and hip. Dislocations cause intense pain, swelling, visible deformity, and loss of function. This is a medical emergency that requires prompt realignment by a healthcare professional to prevent nerve, blood vessel, or ligament damage.

Once treated, full recovery requires rest, rehabilitation, and strengthening to avoid repeated dislocations, especially in joints prone to instability (like the shoulder).

Types of Dislocation:

  • Complete Dislocation: Bones are fully out of position.

  • Partial Dislocation (Subluxation): Bones are partially misaligned.

  • Open Dislocation: Accompanied by an open wound or bone protrusion.

  • Congenital Dislocation: Present from birth (e.g., developmental hip dysplasia).

  • Recurrent Dislocation: Joint becomes unstable and dislocates repeatedly.

Common Causes:

  • Falls or sports injuries

  • Motor vehicle accidents

  • Sudden trauma or twisting motions

  • Congenital joint laxity or ligament weakness

  • Previous joint injury or instability

Severity Factors:

  • Delayed treatment can damage nerves, ligaments, or blood vessels

  • Some joints, like the shoulder, are more prone to recurrence

  • Children may recover quickly; older adults are at higher risk of complications

  • Improper repositioning increases risk of arthritis or chronic instability

When to See a Doctor (Immediately):

  • Obvious joint deformity

  • Inability to move the joint or severe pain

  • Swelling, bruising, or numbness

  • Discoloration or coolness in the limb (sign of blood flow loss)

  • Repeated dislocations or instability

  • Any suspected dislocation should be evaluated before attempting to move or reposition

Natural Remedies

RICE protocol: Rest, Ice (15–20 min intervals), Compression, and Elevation

Immobilization: Using a sling, splint, or brace to allow healing

Gentle range-of-motion exercises: After immobilization phase (under guidance)

Anti-inflammatory support: Natural and dietary options to reduce swelling

Physical therapy: To rebuild strength and prevent recurrence

Avoid high-impact activity: Until fully healed