Dislocation
Dislocation is a bone problem in the form of a bone shifting from the joint or its proper position. Dislocation can occur in any joint, but the most common are the shoulder, finger, elbow, knee, and hip joints. Joints that have experienced dislocation have a greater risk factor for experiencing repeated dislocation.
Dislocations usually involve the larger joints of the body. The temporary injury that occurs can damage and disable the joint. Not only that, sudden and severe pain and swelling can also occur. This problem requires immediate medical attention to return the bone to its correct position.
Symptoms of Dislocation
Dislocation can cause various symptoms in each person who experiences it. This depends on the severity and location of the injury. Here are some symptoms of dislocation that may appear:
- Joint irregularities.
- Swelling, bruising, or redness of the joints.
- Difficulty or inability to move joints.
- Pain when the joint is moved.
- Numbness or tingling in the area around the joints.
- Often feels tingling.
Causes of Dislocation
The main cause of dislocation is injury or trauma caused by a hard impact. The trauma forces the joint out of place. For example, when someone falls, gets hit, or other forms of trauma that can cause a hard impact.
This problem also occurs during routine activities when the muscles and tendons around the joint are weak. However, this problem is more common in someone who has weak muscles and balance problems.
Risk Factors for Dislocation
Anyone can experience joint dislocation when falling or experiencing various other types of trauma. There are at least several factors that can increase the risk of dislocation, causing injury. For example:
- Actively participate in sports, such as basketball, soccer, gymnastics, or wrestling.
- Motor vehicle accident.
- Heredity, which is influenced by weaker ligament conditions from birth.
- Elderly people are therefore more prone to falls.
- Children, due to high levels of physical activity.
Dislocation Diagnosis
To diagnose dislocation, in the initial stage the doctor will conduct a medical interview. After that, the doctor will perform a physical examination in the traumatized area. The doctor will also try to see and move the joint. Examination related to circulation to the area, deformity, and skin damage also needs to be done.
In some cases, the doctor will also carry out supporting examinations, such as:
- X-ray, this examination is to see the damage that occurs to the joints and surrounding areas that have been injured or broken.
- MRI, this scanning examination aims to see damage to soft tissue in the area that has experienced trauma.
Dislocation Treatment
Treatment or treatment for dislocations can vary depending on the severity and the affected joint. Applying ice and keeping the joint elevated can also help reduce pain while on the way to the doctor.
The principles of treatment carried out by doctors in cases of dislocation are as follows:
- Reduction, which is an action to return the bone to its original position.
- Immobilization, which is an action to inhibit joint movement by using a joint support, such as a cast, for several weeks. This action is done after the bone is returned to its original position.
- Surgery, which is an action taken if the bone cannot be returned to its original position or if there is damage to blood vessels, nerves, or ligaments adjacent to the dislocated joint.
- Rehabilitation, this procedure will be performed after the joint brace can be removed. This rehabilitation aims to restore range of motion, as well as joint strength.
Some other treatment steps that can be taken to help the healing process include:
- Rest the injured joint, don’t move it too much.
- Taking painkillers if necessary to relieve pain that causes discomfort.
- Compress the sore joint using ice. This can be done in the first 1-2 days to reduce pain. You can also compress it with warm water the next day to help relax tense muscles.
- Once it has improved, try to train the joints gradually. However, make sure to do this exercise on the advice and recommendation of a doctor.
Dislocation Complications
Dislocations that are left untreated can lead to other problems or complications. However, serious complications are very rare. Some complications may occur during the first few hours or days after the injury. Others may develop over time.
Some complications that can arise from dislocation include:
- Damage to nerves and blood vessels in the area around the joints.
- Tearing of ligaments, muscles, and even soft tissues that connect muscles to bones.
- Inflammation of a dislocated joint.
- Increased risk of re-injury to the dislocated joint.
Dislocation Prevention
The main prevention of dislocation is to avoid trauma to the joint. Therefore, do the movement carefully and safely. For example, be careful when exercising or driving. If necessary, use personal protective equipment to minimize the impact of the impact.
When to See a Doctor?
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience the symptoms described above to get proper treatment and advice. Prompt and proper treatment can increase the chances of a quick recovery. Do not try to push the dislocation back into place. This can damage the muscles and tissues around the joint and cause complications.
