Joint dislocation occurs when bones in a joint become displaced or misaligned. It is often caused by a sudden impact of the joint. The ligaments become damaged as a result of a dislocation. Although it is possible for any joint to become dislocated, the most common areas are the shoulders, fingers, knees, wrists, and elbows.

Treatment:
*x-rays are typically taken to confirm diagnosis and detect any fractures which may also have occurred at the time of dislocation.
*once the diagnosis is confirmed, the joint is usually manipulated back into position. This can be a painful process, therefore this is typically done either in A&E under sedation or in an Operating Room under a general anaesthetic.
*It is important the joint is reduced as soon as possible, as in the state of dislocation, the blood supply to the joint (or distal anatomy) may be compromised. This is especially true in the case of a dislocated ankle, due to the anatomy of the blood supply to the foot.
*Shoulder injuries can also be surgically stabilized, depending on the severity, using arthroscopic surgery.
*Some joints are more at risk of becoming dislocated again after an initial injury. This is due to the weakening of the muscles and ligaments which hold the joint in place. The shoulder is a prime example of this. Any shoulder dislocation should be followed up with thorough physiotherapy.
*After a dislocation, injured joints are usually held in place by a splint (for straight joints like fingers and toes) or a bandage (for complex joints like shoulders). Additionally, the joint muscles, tendons and ligaments must also be strengthened. This is usually done through a course of physiotherapy, which will also help reduce the chances of repeated dislocations of the same joint.

If you or a loved one is suffering from Dislocated Joints, talk to your doctor about treatment options.