Dislocations occur when a bone is forcefully pushed out of its normal position in a joint. They are frequently caused by accidents and injuries and are a common occurrence in sports and active lifestyles. While some dislocations can be easily treated others can be serious and require medical attention. As a physiotherapist or chiropractor, it’s essential to know the difference between a minor and severe dislocation. In this blog post, we will discuss when dislocations are serious and why they should be treated promptly.
When the Joint is Dislocated for the First Time:
If a joint dislocates for the first time, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention. The first dislocation increases the risk of having the joint dislocate again in the future. Depending on the severity of the injury, the medical professional may use medications, rest, ice, and physiotherapy which is good for dislocations.
When the Joint is Dislocated Repeatedly:
Repeated dislocations are an indication of a more severe injury, particularly when the joint is dislocating in only one direction. In this case, the ligaments that hold the bones together may be stretched or torn, making the joint unstable. Surgery may be necessary to repair the ligaments and prevent further dislocations.
When the Dislocation Affects the Blood Supply:
When joints dislocate, they can also damage arteries and nerves that support them. This damage can lead to decreased blood supply to the affected area, causing tissue damage or necrosis. If you experience numbness, weakness, or a cold and pale extremity following a dislocation, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms indicate that the joint’s dislocation has seriously limited blood flow to the affected area.
When the Dislocation Causes Fractures:
In severe cases, joint dislocations can cause the bones to break inside the joint or create a fracture at the joint’s surrounding area. If the injury is left untreated, it can lead to long-term damage, including arthritis or joint Cartilage Damage. Closely monitoring and treating fractures and other injuries accompanying the dislocation is critical to preventing permanent damage.
When the Dislocation Affects the Spine:
Dislocations of the spine are particularly serious because they can damage the spinal cord, which is critical for transmitting signals from the brain to other parts of the body. Severe dislocations of the spine can also cause paralysis and other complications. If you have any pain or loss of function after a spinal dislocation, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Injuries can happen suddenly, and dislocations are a common occurrence in sports or accidents. Knowing when dislocations are serious can help prevent permanent damage. As a physiotherapist or chiropractor, you can provide effective treatment and guide your patients to seek prompt medical attention when necessary. Never hesitate to recommend a more thorough diagnosis by a medical professional to provide the most exceptional care for your patients. Remember, early medical attention is the key to preventing severe dislocations and long-term consequences.
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 physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
