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Bone & jointStep 1 of 7

Dislocations

Joint out of socket. Splint as found unless you are hours from help.

1

Compare to the other side.

Dislocations look obviously wrong: a square shoulder, a kneecap off to the side.

Never

  • Never yank or use force
  • Never attempt to reduce a hip or knee joint in the field

Evacuate now if

  • Hip, knee, elbow, or ankle dislocation — always
  • No pulse or numbness past the joint
  • Reduction attempt failed or the joint re-dislocates