Joint dislocation

Shoulder dislocation

• Patients under 25 years of age should be referred to an orthopedic surgeon to consider further intervention (i.e., possible arthroscopic or open repair), as this age group is at significant risk of recurrence and has been reported to have a better outcome after primary repair by an orthopedic surgeon.

• Patients should have routine follow-up with an orthopedic surgeon and begin physical therapy. If significant pain and inability to raise the arm remains 3-4 weeks after the reduction, a high suspicion for rotator cuff tear merits an MRI evaluation.

Finger dislocation

• Any finger dislocation should be followed up by a hand surgeon to ensure appropriate management and to monitor rehabilitation. Patients may or may not need occupational therapy to assist in range of motion and prevent stiffness of the joint.

Patellar dislocation

• Outpatient orthopedic referral is appropriate after a dislocation has been reduced, to evaluate presence of instability, assess the range of motion, and implement a therapy program if necessary.

Elbow dislocation

• Patients with simple dislocations should have routine follow-up with an orthopedic surgeon to evaluate presence of instability, assess the range of motion, and implement a therapy program if necessary.

Hip dislocation

• Patients with hip dislocations should be followed for several years; x-rays should be performed annually to confirm that the femoral head remains reduced and appears healthy, without signs of osteonecrosis.