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Dislocation

Definition:

A dislocation is a separation of two bones where they meet at a joint. (Joints are areas where two bones come together.) A dislocated bone is no longer in its normal position. A dislocation may also cause ligament or nerve damage.

Alternative Names:

Joint dislocation

Considerations:

It may be hard to tell a dislocated bone from a broken bone . Both are emergency situations and require the same first-aid treatment. Injuries to the surrounding ligaments generally take 3 to 6 weeks to heal.

Causes:

Dislocations are usually caused by a sudden impact to the joint. This usually occurs following a blow, fall, or other trauma.

References:

Browner, BD. Skeletal Trauma: Basic Science, Management, and Reconstruction. 3^rd Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2003:1629-1630.

Radial head injury

Dislocation of the hip

Shoulder joint

Review Date: 5/31/2006
Reviewed By: Kevin B. Freedman, MD, MSCE, Sports Medicine, Orthopaedic Specialists, Bryn Mawr, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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