- How to speed recovery from dislocation
- How to recover the movements after removing the immobilization
Dislocation treatment should be started as soon as possible in the hospital, so when it happens, it is recommended to go to the emergency room immediately or call an ambulance by calling 192. See what to do at: First aid for dislocation.
Dislocation can happen in any joint, however, it is more common in the ankles, elbows, shoulders, hips and fingers, especially during the practice of contact sports, such as football or handball, for example.
Generally, treatment varies according to the joint and the degree of the injury, with the main forms of treatment including:
- Dislocation reduction: it is the most used treatment where the orthopedist places the bones of the joint in the correct position by manipulating the affected limb. This technique can be done with local or general anesthesia, depending on the pain caused by the injury; Immobilization of the dislocation: it is done when the bones of the joint are not too far apart or after making the reduction, by placing a splint or sling to keep the joint immobile for 4 to 8 weeks; Dislocation surgery: it is used in the most severe cases when the orthopedist is unable to place the bones in the correct place or when the nerves, ligaments or blood vessels have been affected.
After these treatments, the orthopedist usually recommends doing physical therapy sessions to strengthen the muscles, reduce inflammation, facilitate healing and promote joint stability through physical therapy devices and exercises.
How to speed recovery from dislocation
To speed up the recovery of the dislocation and avoid worsening the injury, it is important to take some precautions such as:
- Do not ride in the car for the first 2 weeks, to prevent the car's swing from moving the joint; Avoid making sudden movements with the affected limb, even after removing the immobilization, especially in the first 2 months; Return to sports only 3 months after the start of treatment or according to the orthopedist's guidance; Take the anti-inflammatory drugs prescribed by the doctor on time to help reduce joint inflammation;
These precautions must be adapted according to the affected joint. Thus, in case of shoulder dislocation, for example, it is important to avoid picking up heavy objects in the first 2 months.
How to recover the movements after removing the immobilization
After the immobilization is removed, it is normal for movements to be a little more stuck and less muscle strength. Generally, when the person is immobilized for up to 20 days in just 1 week, it is already possible to return to normal mobility, but when immobilization is necessary for more than 12 weeks, muscle stiffness can be great, requiring physiotherapy.
At home, to regain joint mobility, you can soak the joint in hot water for about 20 to 30 minutes. Trying to slowly stretch your arm or leg also helps, but you should not insist if there is pain.
