Dislocations (HB)

(This protocol specifically applies to dislocations of the shoulder, patella, and digits resulting from an indirect force only. The following procedures should be stopped if pain increases and or resistance is encountered.)

Shoulder

1. Check and document distal neurovascular function including sensation over the deltoid region of the affected side both before and after the reduction.
2. Reduce with:
   • Cunningham method
   • External Rotation and Abduction
   • Scapular Manipulation
3. Splint in mid-range position.

Patella (Lateral dislocations only)

1. Check and document distal neurovascular function before and after the reduction.
2. Gently straighten the patient’s knee and flex the hip. If the patella does not spontaneously reduce, gently guide the displaced patella medially back into its normal anatomic position.
3. Splint the knee in a neutral position.

Digits (Fingers and toes, not including thumb)

1. Check and document distal neurovascular function before and after the reduction.
2. Apply axial traction distal and counter-traction proximal to the dislocated joint until the dislocation has been reduced.
3. Splint in anatomical position.