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Dislocation

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Dislocation

Definition:

A dislocation is a seperation of a bone where it meets a joint. (Joints are areas where two or more bones come together.) A dislocated bone is no longer in its normal position. A dislocation may also cause ligament and nerve damage.

Alternative Names:

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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.

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