A subluxation results from displacement of part of a joint. A shock is often the cause of this attack. Which joints are affected? How is the diagnosis made? What are the possible therapeutic solutions?
Definition: what is a subluxation?
A subluxation is a incomplete dislocation. “It is characterized by the transient displacement of only one of the two bones making up the joint, most often following a trauma, explains Dr. Christophe Delong. The joint is then no longer correctly aligned and the loss of contact between the joint surfaces is only partial. This comes back into place quickly and mostly spontaneously.
What is the difference between dislocation and subluxation?
While subluxation is the partial displacement of one articular surface relative to another, in the case of a dislocation, the loss of contact is total.
What are the main types of subluxation?
Subluxations can involve any joint, be it the phalanges, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee or ankle.
What are the symptoms of a subluxation?
A subluxation causes:
- And swelling from areas
- A pain sometimes strong
- A feeling of warmth in the joint
- The inability to use of the affected joint
- Sometimes the feeling of electric shocks in the joint
- When it occurs in the shoulder or knee, a deformation can sometimes be seen
What are the possible causes of a subluxation?
It can be caused by a trauma on the joint, such as a shock, a fall or a violent blow. “Subluxations are common in hypermobile people because their ligaments poorly perform their joint maintenance function“, says Dr. Delong.
What tests should be done to diagnose a subluxation?
A radiograph of the injured joint is systematically carried out, in order to eliminate the diagnosis of fracture and confirm the subluxation. It also helps to assess its severity. In some cases, the use of scanner is necessary.
The first step will be to immobilize the joint in question either with a splint for the patella or the knee, or a sling for the shoulder. “In parallel, treatment with analgesics will be prescribed in order to reduce the intensity of the pain, as well as anti-inflammatories in case of local inflammation, adds our expert. A manipulation may also be offered in the event of knee or shoulder subluxation: it consists of restore the correct positioning of the bones. After this reduction, the splint port will be essential to protect the joint“. Subsequently, physiotherapy sessions can be offered to promote a return to normal.
What is the average healing time for a subluxation?
“Taking rehabilitation into account, the healing time can last several months, between 2 and 6 months, depending on the area concerned“, specifies Dr. Delong. However, a subluxation can recur.
Thanks to Dr. Christophe Delong, specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
