Dislocations

Our bones and cartilage are connected with flexible bands of fibrous tissue, called ligaments. When extreme force is put on a ligament, the ends of two connected bones can separate, causing a dislocation.

Ligaments also bind the bones in a joint together. Stress on joint ligaments can lead to dislocation of the joint.

• The most commonly dislocated joint is the shoulder
• Dislocations are uncommon in younger children; they are more prone to a fracture
• Remember, initial treatment of a dislocation includes R.I.C.E. — rest, ice, compression and elevation