Which joint is NOT allowed to be reduced onsite?

Which joint is NOT allowed to be reduced onsite?

• A. Glenohumeral joint
• B. Hip
• C. Elbow
• D. Patellofemoral

Answer: (C)

Not all joint dislocations should be reduced on the field. The joints that are safely reducible on-site are those where a simple, uncomplicated dislocation can be realigned quickly with appropriate analgesia and immobilization, after which the patient is transported for imaging and further care. A dislocated shoulder often can be reduced on the sideline using traction and stabilization techniques, and a patellofemoral dislocation can be realigned with knee extension and patella manipulation. Elbow dislocations, however, are more prone to associated fractures and neurovascular injuries. They require careful assessment with imaging before attempting any reduction, because moving the joint without X-rays can hide or worsen fractures and threaten nearby nerves and vessels. For this reason, elbow dislocations are not reduced on-site in standard practice.

Not all joint dislocations should be reduced on the field. The joints that are safely reducible on-site are those where a simple, uncomplicated dislocation can be realigned quickly with appropriate analgesia and immobilization, after which the patient is transported for imaging and further care. A dislocated shoulder often can be reduced on the sideline using traction and stabilization techniques, and a patellofemoral dislocation can be realigned with knee extension and patella manipulation.

Elbow dislocations, however, are more prone to associated fractures and neurovascular injuries. They require careful assessment with imaging before attempting any reduction, because moving the joint without X-rays can hide or worsen fractures and threaten nearby nerves and vessels. For this reason, elbow dislocations are not reduced on-site in standard practice.