First aid treatment for dislocated joints

  Joint dislocation is a common emergency in sports injuries. The human body is divided into immovable, partially movable and movable joints. A dislocation is the dislocation of a bone from a joint.  Dislocations usually result in ligament strains or tears and, in severe cases, fractures. Clinical manifestations include joint protrusion and loss of function, painful joint deformity, and moderate to severe swelling. If the dislocated bone compresses a nerve, the limb below the dislocated joint may become numb; if it compresses a blood vessel, the limb below the dislocated joint may not feel pulsation and become purple.  First of all, to prevent the patient from falling and getting injured again, help him/her sit or lie down, check if there are other injuries, and check the distal pulse to keep the patient quiet, warm and prevent shock, usually in the most comfortable sitting position.  Immobilizing the dislocated area is the best way to reduce pain. Self-help methods include holding the elbow in magazines, thick newspapers or cardboard, using a triangular scarf, and fixing the elbow to the chest to avoid movement of the joint and reduce pain. Use a small pillow or cushion and place it on the inside of the injured upper limb and between the chest.