Dislocated joints happen when bones are pulled out of their normal position. Find out what to look for and how to perform first aid.
A dislocated joint happens when bones are partly or completely pulled out of their normal position. Joints can dislocate when a strong force wrenches or pulls the bone into an abnormal position. Common dislocations include the knee, jaw, ankle, and fingers and thumbs.
Someone with a dislocated joint may:
have swelling and bruising around the joint and it may look shorter, bent, or deformed.
complain of a severe, sickening pain
be unable to move the joint.
Advise the casualty to stay still. Help them to support their dislocated joint in the most comfortable position. Offer simple pain relief such as paracetamol, if they can take it.
Do not try to put the dislocated bone back into its socket, as this may cause further injury.
Stop the joint from moving.
If you think they have dislocated their shoulder or elbow, support the injured arm using a sling. To give comfort and support, tie a broad-fold bandage (wide bandage) around the chest and the sling. If a hand or arm is injured, remove any watches in case of swelling.
If you think they have dislocated their ankle, knee, or hip joint, support the injured leg using padding and broad-fold bandages.
With a lower limb joint, make sure they don't put any weight on it.
Send the casualty to hospital. Call 999 or 112 for emergency help if you can’t take them yourself.
While waiting for help, treat for shock if necessary. Monitor their level of response.
Do not raise an injured leg. Only raise the uninjured leg.
Check the circulation beyond any bandages every 10 minutes and loosen if necessary.
