Joint Dislocations & Instability

Joint dislocation occurs when bones in a joint are forced out of alignment, often damaging surrounding ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. This trauma can lead to persistent joint instability, leaving the joint prone to repeated slippage or recurring dislocations.

Symptoms

• Visibly deformed or out-of-place joint
• Severe, sudden pain and swelling
• Inability to move the joint
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness near the injury

Causes

High-impact sports injuries, sudden twists, fall-related trauma, or direct blows to a joint commonly force bones out of their normal positioning.

Risk Factors

• Participation in contact or high-speed sports
• History of previous dislocations
• Naturally loose ligaments (hypermobility)
• Weak supporting musculature

Diagnosis

Our sports medicine specialists perform detailed physical evaluations and utilize advanced imaging—including X-rays and MRIs—to assess bone alignment, ligament damage, and structural stability.

Treatment

Care ranges from non-surgical joint reduction, immobilization (bracing), and targeted physical therapy to minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery for severe ligament tears or recurrent instability.