Orthopedic Care For Your Dislocated Knee: Restoring Stability And Mobility
A dislocated knee is very painful and it is a potentially serious injury that occurs when the bones of your knee joint are forced out of their normal position. Knee dislocations require immediate treatment and specialized orthopedic care to help minimize knee damage, relieve pain and inflammation, and to help restore the stability and mobility of the injured knee. Here are some reasons why you need orthopedic services for your dislocated knee and which treatment options are available.
Orthopedic Emergency Management and Diagnosis
When you dislocate your knee, prompt emergency care is essential. Orthopedic care interventions may include immobilizing the affected knee to help stabilize it and to minimize movement to help prevent further damage.
Pain medications and the application of ice may also be recommended to help reduce discomfort and swelling. If your knee dislocation is severe, it may need to be manipulated back into its proper place. The orthopedic services physician will perform this procedure while you are under anesthesia so that you will not feel anything during the procedure.
After your knee has been stabilized and set, diagnostic imaging tests such as traditional X-rays and scans may be needed to determine if you have any bone fractures, muscle damage, or torn ligaments as a result of your knee dislocation injury.
Aftercare Treatment And Rehabilitation
Orthopedic care for your dislocated knee will be focused on both short-term goals as well as long-term goals. Your treatment plan may include additional immobilization and support with a cast or brace so that the surrounding structures of your knee can heal. Your orthopedic physician may also recommend the use of a walker or crutches to help with your mobility and reduce the weight-bearing force on your knee.
Other orthopedic services may include physical therapy to help restore your range of motion, improve your flexibility, decrease pain, and promote blood flow to your knee. Your physical therapist will develop an individualized treatment plan that may include stretching and balance exercises. It is important to note, that if your imaging tests reveal that you have sustained ligament damage or a bone fracture at the time of your knee dislocation, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair those associated injuries.
If you suspect that you may have dislocated your knee, seek emergency orthopedic services in your area. Early intervention with proper orthopedic care will help make sure that you recover from your dislocated knee injury as soon as possible to help ensure a positive outcome.
Share