Dislocation

This week I have chose to talk about dislocations. For many this subject is self explanatory but for others allow me to elaborate. By reading the word "dislocation" it is clearly stating that it's evolving a bone location. Therefore, a dislocation is when your bones get separated from the joint where they connect. A dislocated bone is no longer in its correct position! You can dislocate divers parts of your body such as you knee, shoulder, hip, ankle. It's usually hard to tell from a broken and dislocated bone although, this injury is equally an emergency too!

Causes: This injury is caused by a sudden hit or impact to the joint. Such as if someone were to fall or be hit with great force it could lead to a dislocated bone. When you dislocate a bone once, it's easy to dislocate the bone again in the future.

Let me tell you a story regarding dislocations and how they effected my cousin. It all started when he was about 15 years old and now he's 26. His shoulder has dislocated 5 times in the last 11 years or might I say his SHOULDERS! Yes both his shoulders have been dislocated. The first incident was in the school yard when he was 15, he was playing football and got tackled by a guy who is 2 times his size. He was in great pain and screamed for help. Much like his second incident when he fell down the stairs and dislocated the same shoulder. By his 3rd incident he was practically an expert, after he was checked in hockey, he knew exactly how to fix his shoulder. Although, he could never overcome the agonizing pain he was able to pop it back in place. The next time he got hurt was a little different, this time it was his left shoulder that dislocated exactly the same as his fifth time. He has been to the doctors several times and they said that his shoulders are prone to dislocate easily because it has happen so often. My cousin does not let this injury affect his life, I am so proud that he continues to play sports and enjoy his life. He is just more cautious now of what he does.

Symptoms

• Bruising/ swelling
• Intense pain
• Hard to move
• Redness
• Limited movement
• Visibly out of place

Treatment
The treatment will depend on your doctor and how severe the dislocation is! For minor dislocation all you must simply do is R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevate). Although, for more severe dislocation your must get it popped back into place. After the treatment, the injured area will be placed in a sling and would profit from muscles strengthening (physiotherapy).

How to Prevent

• Use handrails when using the stairs
• Keep a first aid kit in the area
• Move electrical cords off the floor
• Wear protective gear when playing sports
• Be careful on rugs
• In the bath tub, use non-skid mats
• Do not stand on unstable items

This video demonstrates how your bone can dislocate!

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000014.htm
http://www.healthline.com/health/dislocation