Dislocations
Table of Contents
Overview
A dislocation is a joint injury where the bone ends are displaced from their normal position. It can damage nerves, blood vessels, ligaments, and nearby bone.
Signs and Symptoms
- Severe pain at the joint
- Obvious deformity or an unusual joint position
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness
- Reduced or absent movement
- Numbness, tingling, pale skin, or weak pulse beyond the injury
First Aid
- Follow DRSABCD and treat any other serious injuries.
- Keep the person still and support the injured joint in the position found.
- Immobilise the joint with padding, a sling, or bandages if this does not increase pain.
- Apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth for short periods if available.
- Seek medical aid. Dislocations need professional assessment, even if the joint appears to go back in.
- Call 000 if pain is severe, the limb is cold or pale, circulation is reduced, or transport is unsafe.
Do Not
- Do not try to relocate the joint.
- Do not pull, twist, or straighten the limb.
- Do not allow the person to keep using the injured joint.