Dislocations occur when a bone moves out of place from its normal position within a joint. This can cause a range of symptoms that can be quite uncomfortable and can limit your ability to move freely. If you’ve recently experienced a dislocation or have been experiencing discomfort in a certain joint it’s important to understand the symptoms and seek out professional help to address the issue. In this blog post we’ll cover the common symptoms of dislocation and explain how a physiotherapist or chiropractor can help.
Pain and Swelling
One of the most common symptoms of dislocation is pain and swelling at the affected joint. You may experience sharp pain in the joint especially when you try to move it. The pain may come and go, but it will likely worsen with activity. Swelling can also occur, as the soft tissues around the joint respond to the injury by becoming inflamed.
Limited Range of Motion
Another common symptom of dislocation is a limited range of motion at the affected joint. You may find it difficult or even impossible to move the joint in the way you normally would. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, and can also be quite frustrating. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can help restore your range of motion through a combination of exercises and manual techniques.
Visible Dislocation
In some cases, you may be able to see that the joint has moved out of place. This is often the case with dislocations of the shoulder, elbow, or knee, as these joints tend to be more exposed. If you suspect that you have a dislocated joint, it’s important not to try to move it back into place yourself. This can cause further damage and make the injury worse. Seek professional help right away.
Numbness or Tingling
Sometimes, dislocation can cause nerve damage, which can result in numbness or tingling at the affected joint. This can be mild or severe, depending on the extent of the damage. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether nerve damage has occurred. If it has, they can help you develop a treatment plan to address the issue.
Recurrent Dislocation
If you’ve experienced a dislocation in the past, you may be at increased risk of experiencing it again in the future. This is especially true if you’ve had multiple dislocations in the same joint. Recurrent dislocations can be quite frustrating, as they can limit your ability to participate in the activities you enjoy. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can help by developing a treatment plan to address the underlying issues that are causing the dislocations.
Dislocations can be painful and debilitating, but they don’t have to be. By understanding the symptoms and seeking out professional help, you can get the treatment you need to recover and get back to doing the things you love. Whether you choose to work with a physiotherapist or chiropractor, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. These professionals have the knowledge and expertise to help you recover from a dislocation and prevent future injuries. So, if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms we’ve covered in this post, don’t hesitate to seek out help. Your body (and your future self) will thank you.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapy at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
