Joint dislocation

Shoulder dislocation

There appears to be no difference between early mobilisation and immobilisation following a shoulder dislocation. However, it is common to place the arm in a sling for comfort.[46][55] Immobilisation should be for no longer than 3-4 weeks to avoid adhesive capsulitis. All patients should avoid impact activities. Pain permitting, patients should be encouraged to begin range of motion activities.

Finger dislocation

For simple stable dislocations that concentrically reduce, patients should be instructed to wear their splints only until the pain subsides. Pain permitting, the patient should buddy tape the affected finger and begin an active range of motion.[57]

Patellar dislocation

Patients should be immobilised in a knee immobiliser for 7-10 days with emphasis on early mobilisation as pain permits to limit arthrofibrosis. New England Musculoskeletal Institute: patellar dislocation Opens in new window Crutches should be used until the patient can walk relatively pain free, and the knee immobiliser should be kept in place until strength improves and symptoms abate. Moderate quadriceps strengthening should begin when the patient is comfortable.[15]

Elbow dislocation

Patients who sustain a simple dislocation should be splinted initially but instructed to remove the splint when pain permits.[93]

Hip dislocation

Hip immobilisation is difficult. Patients usually do well with assisted ambulation using crutches, and bear weight as tolerated. Crutches should be used until the patient can walk relatively pain-free. Moderate quadriceps strengthening should begin when the patient is comfortable.

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