What to know, what to do ...

As described above, joints are flexible locations where two or more bones come together secured by flexible threads of ligament. Joints allow bones to move within limits of their range,  their designed direction and distance of comfortable motion. Accidents can damage joints, even if the bones meeting there are not broken. Joints may dislocated, or sprained.

You Should Suspect a Dislocated Joint If

Ø      The joint has been subjected to a violent tearing force

Ø      The joint is visibly the wrong shape or size

Ø      The victim clutches at the extremity to prevent all, even slight, motion

Ø      The victim reports extreme pain, throbbing pain, heat, and/or swelling

What to Do if You Suspect a Dislocated Joint

Ø      Send someone to call 911 Emergency Medical Services

Ø      If the victim is not in danger to remain where they are

o       Do not move the victim

o       Take care of any other injuries, such as bleeding

o       Help the victim remain as comfortable as possible

o       Continue to watch over the victim, in case they develop a problem with airway, breathing, or circulation

o       Reassure the victim

Ø      If it is dangerous for the victim to where they are

o       Check (feel) the extremity beyond the injury for feeling, warmth and color

o       Splint the Injury

§         Use something soft (bandages, extra clothing) to pad and secure the bone above and below the injury to something for external support. Do not tie anything directly ON the injury site.

§         Only if you can do it without causing more pain and discomfort to the victim

§         In the position you find it. Do NOT attempt to “straighten” or “set” a broken bone. As mentioned before, very important soft structures (arteries, veins, nerves, tendons and ligaments pass through the areas of joints.. Stability is critical. Physicians will realign the joints only after using equipment to be sure of placement and surrounding structures.

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