Physical Education

Dislocations

A dislocation occurs when a bone is forcibly displaced from its joint. Many times the bone slips back into its normal position; other times, it becomes locked and remains dislocated until it is put back into place (reduction). Dislocations are caused by falls or blows and occasionally by violent muscular exertion. The joints that are most frequently dislocated are the shoulder, hip, finger, and jaw.

A dislocation may bruise or tear muscles, ligaments, blood vessels, and tendons. The primary symptoms are rapid swelling, discoloration, loss of movement, pain, and shock. You should not attempt to reduce a dislocation. Unskilled attempts at reduction may cause damage to the nerves and blood vessels or may fracture a bone. You should leave this treatment to professional medical personnel and concentrate your efforts on making the casualty comfortable.

If you suspect a dislocation, do the following:

1. Loosen clothing from around the injury.

2. Place the casualty in the most comfortable position.

3. Support the injured part with a sling, pillow, or splint.

4. Treat for shock.

5. Request medical assistance as soon as possible.