Dislocations

Dislocations are a complete, persistent displacement of the articular surfaces of bones beyond the physiological norm, with a violation of the integrity of the joint capsule. In case of incomplete displacement, they speak of subluxation. Dislocations can be traumatic, habitual or pathological.

Traumatic dislocation occurs when there is severe mechanical trauma to the joint. It can be closed when there is no wound in the joint area, or open when there is a wound. Open dislocations are usually more severe in course and prognosis. The main symptoms of a dislocation are pain in the joint, the inability of active and passive movements in it, as well as a violation of its configuration. A serious complication of a dislocation can be damage to nearby blood vessels or nerves. If the dislocation is not reduced within the first 2 hours after the injury, it is called old.

Treatment of a dislocation, especially reduction, can be challenging. An open dislocation can be complicated by purulent arthritis. To make a diagnosis, it is necessary to refer to clinical symptoms and perform an x-ray of the joint, since dislocations are sometimes combined with periarticular fractures. X-rays are also important for diagnosing subluxation, which has less obvious symptoms.

In case of dislocations in large joints, such as the shoulder or hip joint, their immobilization and urgent hospitalization in a surgical hospital are necessary. There, the dislocation is reduced and immobilization is applied for a period of at least 3 weeks, after which therapeutic exercises and physiotherapy are performed. Dislocations in small joints, such as the hand or jaw, can be treated on an outpatient basis. In case of chronic dislocations, surgical treatment may be required. The prognosis is favorable if the dislocation was reduced on time and no complications arose.

Habitual dislocation often occurs when immobilization is stopped prematurely after reduction of the first dislocation. It manifests itself in frequent joint dislocations even with minor trauma. The most common habitual dislocations are observed in the shoulder joint. To make a diagnosis, the patient's medical history and radiography of the joint are used. Treatment of habitual dislocation usually requires surgical intervention.

Prevention of dislocations consists of strict adherence to the terms of immobilization and rehabilitation after joint injury. This helps restore stability to the joint and strengthen the surrounding muscles and ligaments. It is also recommended to avoid strong physical stress on the joints, especially if there is a predisposition to dislocations.

Pathological dislocation can be caused by various diseases, such as congenital joint abnormalities, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and others. Treatment of pathological dislocation is aimed at eliminating the underlying disease and symptomatic therapy.

Dislocations are serious joint injuries that require medical attention. If you suspect a dislocation, you should consult a doctor to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment. Late treatment or improper intervention can lead to complications and disruption of the functionality of the joint.