Dr. Uma Chandran S is a stalwart in the field of Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement. With ample experience of more than 48 years, Dr. Chandran has been serving society. He holds mastery in surgery for Bone replacement and Spine Movement. After completing MBBS from Madras University, Dr. Uma Chandran S did FRCS from the University of London. He has been providing innovative and high-quality diagnoses and treatments. The conditions which he treats include Elbow Arthroscopy, Lateral Epicondyle Release (Tennis Elbow), Fracture reduction and fixation, Osteotomy, Arthrolysis, Shoulder Replacement Surgery, and many more. He is working with Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, Chennai.
Joint Dislocation
Dislocation arises when the bones of a joint slip out of their place. In simple terms, it means your bone is no longer at the place where it should be. It's an injury to the joint that temporarily deforms and unbrace it. Any joint of the body can be dislocated fully or partially. It can be caused due to an accident or weak muscles and tendons. Dislocations are common in shoulders and fingers but can occur in the elbow, knee, hip, or shoulder. It can be treated with the help of medication, manipulation, surgery, or rest. If left untreated, it can cause damage to nerves, ligaments, or blood vessels.
Symptoms of Dislocation
Dislocation symptoms differ as per severity and place of injury. In some cases, they are easy to locate as the area becomes red or swollen. A strange shape is also a sign of joint dislocation. Some of its common symptoms include:
- Loss of motion
- Instability of the joint
- Pain during movement
- Swelling
- Numbness around the area
- Tingling feeling
- Bruising
- Loss of ability to move the joint
- Visibly deformed joint
- Diagnosis of Dislocation
It is quite crucial to decide whether a bone is broken or dislocated. In such a case you should reach the orthopedician as early as possible. The doctor will examine the affected area and examine the injury using an X-ray or MRI if required.
Treatment of Dislocation
Dislocation is handled according to the extremity of your case. Initial treatment of dislocation involves taking rest, applying ice, compression, and keeping the joint elevated to reduce the pain. Sometimes the dislocated joint gets into place naturally but when it doesn’t doctor may use one of the following treatments:
Manipulation - In this process, the doctor will reposition the joint back into place by giving you a sedative or anesthesia. It allows your muscles to relax which makes the procedure easy.
Immobilization – Once the joint returns to its original place, your doctor will recommend you to wear a sling or splint for few weeks. This allows the area to heal as it keeps your joint stable in one place. For how long you have to use the sling will depend on the severity of the injury.
Medication – Most of the pain vanishes as soon as your joint gets into place. A muscular relaxant or a pain reliever may be prescribed by your doctor in case you feel any discomfort.
Surgery – Sometimes the dislocation is so intense that it damages your nerves or blood vessels. In such a situation surgery becomes very needful. Surgery is also required for those who often dislocate the same joint. Reconstructing the joint or repairing its damaged structure becomes very essential. Certain cases require a complete joint replacement.
Rehabilitation – The last procedure comes when the joint is properly placed and you are free from using a sling. The rehabilitation suggested by your doctor will gradually increase the joint’s strength and restore its motion range. Wait for complete recovery for best results.
Take away
Dislocation is not good for your joints and if it occurs quite often it is worse. It happens accidentally but it can be avoided with a bit of consciousness. Make use of railings while climbing up or downstairs. For wet areas use non-skid mats. Avoid using throw rugs and electrical cords off the floor. Instruct children about safe behavior. Take special care of adults concerning this.
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