Subluxation

Subluxation position of the distal phalanx

A subluxation is an incomplete dislocation. It is caused by greater violence than distortion. The bones are in a so-called subluxation position, where the articular plates only partially touch.

Clinical picture

• Injury to the capsule and ligaments is greater than in distortion.
• The joint is slightly unstable, but spontaneous repositioning often occurs.

Therapy

• Rigid immobilization is necessary for 3-6 weeks.
• Decompression, icing, NSAs.
• In more severe cases - surgical revision with ligament suture.

Links

Related articles

• Trauma
• Developmental hip dysplasia

Reference

• BENEŠ, Jiří. Studijní materiály [online]. [cit. 2009]. <http://jirben.wz.cz>.