Dislocações

Dislocações, also known as dislocations, occur when the normal alignment of two bones within a joint is disrupted. The ends of the bones are forced out of their usual positions, leading to a loss of joint function and often significant pain. This can happen due to trauma, such as a fall or a direct blow, or sometimes due to underlying joint laxity or congenital conditions.

The most common joints to experience dislocations are the shoulder, fingers, and hip. Symptoms typically include intense pain, visible deformity of the joint, swelling, bruising, and an inability to move the affected limb. In some cases, nerves or blood vessels near the dislocated joint can be damaged, requiring immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of a dislocation is usually made through a physical examination and confirmed with X-rays, which can also reveal any associated fractures. Treatment involves reducing the dislocation, which means carefully manipulating the bones back into their correct positions. This is often done under sedation or anesthesia. Following reduction, the joint is typically immobilized with a splint or cast to allow the surrounding tissues to heal.

Physical therapy is often a crucial part of recovery, helping to restore range of motion, strength, and stability to the affected joint. Recurrent dislocations can occur, especially in joints like the shoulder, and may require surgical intervention to repair damaged ligaments or other stabilizing structures.