Dislocations of joint and pain
Dislocations - Separations of the structures within a JOINT, typically as a result of traumatic injury. The digits (fingers and toes), shoulders, and hips are particularly vulnerable to dislocation. Traumatic dislocation is very painful. Generally a doctor should reduce the dislocation (restore the bones to their correct positions) and evaluate the injury for any damage that would require additional treatment; however, people tend to “pop” dislocations back into place themselves. Such selftreatment can cause further trauma, depending on the circumstances. Splinting the joint and applying ice to the area can reduce swelling and PAIN until the doctor can realign the structures. Sometimes a dislocation reflects an abnormality of the joint that requires a doctor’s assessment and treatment to prevent subsequent dislocations.
See also FRACTURE; RICE; SPRAINS AND STRAINS.
