Dislocating a joint is a painful experience that can happen to anyone. It occurs when the bones in a joint are forced out of position, causing the joint to become unstable and painful. Many people who have experienced dislocations wonder why the pain seems to be worse at night. Some even believe that dislocations hurt more at night, but is there any truth to this belief? In this blog post, we will debunk this myth and explain what causes dislocation pain and how it can be managed.
The short answer is no; dislocations do not hurt more at night. The level of pain experienced after a dislocation depends on various factors such as the severity of the injury, location of the dislocation, and individual pain tolerance. Pain levels may fluctuate throughout the day or night, depending on how much strain is put on the affected joint. However, it’s essential to understand that pain doesn’t have a schedule and can occur at any time.
Dislocation pain occurs due to damage to ligaments, tendons, nerves, and soft tissues surrounding the joint. The body’s natural response to injury is inflammation, which causes swelling and pressure around the affected area resulting in discomfort and pain. The inflammation process typically peaks between 24-48 hours after an injury before gradually subsiding over several days.
To manage dislocation pain effectively, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can assess your condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment may include immobilization of the affected joint using casts or splints or physiotherapy exercises aimed at improving range of motion and strengthening muscles around the injured area.
In some cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention may be required. Surgery involves repositioning of the displaced bone back into its original position and stabilizing the joint using pins, screws, or plates. Post-surgery rehabilitation is essential for proper healing and restoration of full mobility.
Besides seeking medical attention, there are several self-care measures you can take to manage dislocation pain. Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also be effective in managing mild to moderate pain.
In conclusion, dislocations do not hurt more at night. The level of pain experienced varies depending on various factors such as severity of injury, location of the dislocation, and individual pain tolerance. Seeking medical attention promptly is crucial for effective management of dislocation pain. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can assess your condition and develop a tailored treatment plan that may include immobilization, physiotherapy exercises, or surgery if needed. Besides seeking professional help, applying ice packs and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can also help alleviate discomfort. Remember that proper rest and rehabilitation are essential for full recovery and restoration of full joint mobility after a dislocation.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Burzin Rao, BSc (Hons), DC, or another Waterloo chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
