Hand Dislocation
A hand dislocation occurs when the bones within the hand joints are forcibly displaced from their normal positions. This can result from traumatic impacts, falls, or extreme bending of the hand. Commonly affected joints include those in the fingers and thumb. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling, deformity, and limited movement. Immediate medical attention for a dislocated finger or joint is necessary to relocate the dislocated bones and stabilize the joint.
At The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating hand dislocations, offering comprehensive care to restore functionality and alleviate discomfort for our patients.
Most Common Types of Hand Dislocations
Hand dislocations encompass various injuries involving the joints and bones of the hand, each presenting unique challenges and treatment approaches.
Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) Joint Dislocation
A metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint dislocation involves the displacement of the bones connecting the fingers to the hand at the base of the fingers. This type of injury typically occurs due to significant trauma, such as a forceful impact or twisting motion to the hand or fingers. MCP joint dislocations are relatively common and can result in severe pain and functional impairment if left untreated.
Symptoms of MCP joint dislocation include:
- Immediate and severe pain at the base of the affected finger(s)
- Swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the injured area
- Visible deformity or misalignment of the finger(s)
- Inability to move or bend the finger(s) normally
- Numbness or tingling sensation in the fingers
Prompt recognition of these symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Treatment for an MCP joint dislocation typically involves manual reduction, where a healthcare professional manipulates the displaced bones back into their normal position. Immobilization with a splint or buddy taping may be necessary to stabilize the finger(s) during the healing process.
Interphalangeal (IP) Joint Dislocation
An interphalangeal (IP) joint dislocation occurs when the bones connecting the phalanges, or finger bones, become displaced at the joint. This type of injury typically arises from sudden trauma, such as a direct impact or forceful bending of the finger. IP joint dislocations can result in significant pain, swelling, and functional impairment if not promptly addressed.
Symptoms of an IP joint dislocation include:
- Immediate and intense pain at the affected joint
- Swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the dislocated finger
- Visible deformity or misalignment of the finger
- Difficulty moving or bending the finger normally
- Numbness or tingling sensation in the finger
Swift recognition of these symptoms is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Treatment for an IP joint dislocation usually involves manual reduction, where a healthcare professional carefully manipulates the displaced bones back into their proper alignment. Immobilization with splinting or buddy taping may be necessary to stabilize the finger during the healing process.
Thumb Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) Joint Dislocation
A thumb metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint dislocation involves the displacement of the bones connecting the base of the thumb to the hand. This injury typically occurs due to significant trauma, such as a fall onto an outstretched hand or a forceful impact to the thumb. Thumb MCP joint dislocations can cause severe pain, swelling, and functional impairment, requiring prompt attention for proper management.
Symptoms of a thumb MCP joint dislocation include:
- Sudden and intense pain at the base of the thumb
- Swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the affected area
- Visible deformity or misalignment of the thumb
- Difficulty moving or bending the thumb normally
- Numbness or tingling sensation in the thumb
Recognizing these symptoms promptly is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
Treatment for a thumb MCP joint dislocation typically involves manual reduction, where a healthcare professional gently maneuvers the displaced bones back into their proper alignment. Immobilization with splinting or taping may be necessary to stabilize the thumb during the healing process.
Dislocated Finger Treatment in Montgomery County, Maryland
Suffering from a painful hand dislocation? Get expert treatment tailored to your needs at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. Call (301) 515-0900 or conveniently schedule your appointment online to meet with a physician at our Bethesda or Germantown locations. Let our skilled team guide you towards a swift and effective recovery, restoring both mobility and comfort to your hand.
Other Hand & Wrist Conditions
- Hand & Wrist Arthritis
- Hand & Wrist Tendonitis
- Hand & Wrist Fractures
- Forearm Fractures
- Hand Dislocation
- Hand & Wrist Tendon Laceration
- Dupuytren's Contracture
- Trigger Finger
- Mucous Cyst
- Retinacular Cyst
- Skier’s Thumb
- Mallet Finger
- Carpal Tunnel
- De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
- Scaphoid Fracture
- TFCC Injury