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Dislocation

The Basics | Symptoms | Treatment

What Is a Dislocation?

Falling off a bike, pitching a softball — these are all instances when a bone can become dislocated. Basically, "dislocation" means that that the bone has slipped out of its normal position in the joint. Any kind of trauma — like a fall, a blow, or strain — can cause a dislocation. Dislocations can occur in the large joints - shoulder, hip, knee, elbow and ankle or in the smaller joints - fingers and toes.

Sometimes, bones of the joint will shift but not totally become dislocated. While the bones will shift back into their original position, you may feel some pain and have some bruising until they do.

It often is difficult to tell whether the injury is a dislocated bone or a broken bone. Both are considered emergency situations requiring immediate medical attention.

Medically reviewed by Tracy Shuman, MD, August 2005.

SOURCES: The Mayo Clinic. National Library of Medicine - National Institutes of Health.

The Basics | Symptoms | Treatment

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