Understanding Joint Dislocations & How BFOA Supports Your Recovery

Shoulder Dislocations

A shoulder dislocation happens when the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) pops out of the shoulder socket, often due to trauma or forceful overhead movements. Risk factors include athletic injuries, falls, or accidents. Shoulder joints are particularly vulnerable because of their wide range of motion.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

• Sudden, severe shoulder pain
• Visible deformity, swelling, and limited mobility
• Drew-on exams, X-rays, and sometimes MRI for precise injury assessment

Treatment Path

• Non-surgical: Closed reduction to reposition the joint, followed by immobilization and structured physical therapy.
• Surgical: If dislocations are recurrent or involve soft tissue damage, procedures like shoulder stabilization surgery or arthroscopic repair are available.

BFOA offers a full range of solutions—from injections and PT to advanced surgical techniques and shoulder replacements—led by fellowship-trained shoulder experts.

Knee Dislocations

Knee dislocations—though less common—occur when the knee's articulating bones (femur, tibia, and fibula) are displaced because of high-impact trauma such as sports injuries or car accidents.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

• Extreme pain, visible misalignment, swelling, and bruising
• Immediate inability to bear weight
• X-rays and MRI scans help identify damage to ligaments and surrounding tissues

Treatment Path

• Initial stabilization: Emergency realignment and immobilization.
• Repair phase: Surgery to reconstruct torn ligaments such as ACL, PCL, MCL, or LCL.
• Rehabilitation: Intensive physical therapy to regain strength and stability.

At BFOA, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons offer both state-of-the-art arthroscopic procedures and open surgeries, integrating regenerative medicine and customized recovery plans.  Our orthopedic providers are also on orthopedic call at your local hospitals.

Finger (Upper Extremity) Dislocations

Finger dislocations occur when finger joints are forcefully bent or jammed—common in sports, handling heavy objects, or workplace accidents.

Symptoms & Diagnosis.

• Pain, swelling, and joint deformity
• Inability to straighten the finger
• X-rays confirm alignment and rule out fractures

Treatment Path:

• Non-surgical: Closed reduction and splinting for most cases.
• Surgical: Required for bone or tendon injuries; hand surgeons also address related trauma.
• Occupational Therapy might be prescribed to see if you can relieve pain or consistent aches that might be slowing you down or reducing your ability to thrive.

BFOA’s hand and upper-extremity specialists provide precise, minimally invasive care—whether it’s tendon repair, fracture fixation, or advanced joint procedures—helping patients regain function and comfort.

Why Choose Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates

• Multidisciplinary Expertise:
• Fellowship-trained surgeons in shoulder, hand, knee, sports medicine, and joint reconstruction.
• Dedicated physical and occupational therapists on site.
• Comprehensive, Patient-Centered Care:
• From detailed diagnostics, non-surgical options, and advanced surgical interventions to pain management and regenerative therapies.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities:
• Operate out of our High Desert Surgery Center in Kennewick, offering safe, efficient, and expert surgical environments.
• Hospital On-Call Coverage:
• Many of our providers are on call at local hospitals such as Trios Women’s and Children’s Hospital our Lourdes—offering around-the-clock emergency orthopedic support.

Dislocations in shoulders, knees, or fingers should never be ignored. Accurate diagnosis and timely care are critical for preserving joint health and preventing future complications. With a highly trained team, cutting-edge treatments, and hospital-connected support, Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates stands ready to treat dislocations comprehensively—right here in Kennewick.

Need help after an injury? Call us at (509) 586-2828 to schedule your evaluation and start your recovery journey today.