Dislocations in Rugby and Football: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery

Rugby and football are physically demanding sports that test players’ strength, agility, and resilience. However, the high-impact nature of these games can sometimes lead to injuries, with joint dislocations being a common occurrence.

At Elite Health and Performance, we see dislocations ranging from shoulders and fingers to knees and elbows. Understanding these injuries, their treatment, and how to prevent them is essential for players looking to get back on the field safely.

What is Dislocation?

A dislocation occurs when the bones in a joint are forced out of their normal position. This is typically caused by a sudden impact or trauma, making it a frequent injury in contact sports like rugby and football.

Common types of dislocations in rugby and football include:

Shoulder dislocations: Often result from tackles or falls, causing the upper arm bone to pop out of the shoulder socket.
Finger dislocations: Common when catching the ball or during scrums, as the force can hyperextend the joint.
Knee dislocations: Less frequent but serious, often occurring due to a collision or awkward landing.
Elbow dislocations: Often caused by falling on an outstretched arm.

Signs and Symptoms of a Dislocation

Dislocations are usually easy to spot due to their noticeable symptoms:

Intense pain and inability to move the joint.
Swelling and bruising around the joint.
Deformity or the joint looking "out of place."
Numbness or tingling around the affected area due to nerve compression.

Immediate Steps After a Dislocation

If a dislocation occurs on the field, immediate action is crucial to minimise damage and aid recovery:

Stop play immediately: Continuing to play can worsen the injury.
Immobilise the joint: Use a sling, splint, or keep the joint in its current position.
Apply ice: Reduces swelling and numbs the area.
Seek medical attention: Do not attempt to relocate the joint yourself. A healthcare professional should handle this to avoid further damage.

Treatment and Rehabilitation

Once the joint has been relocated, the focus shifts to recovery and preventing re-injury.

1. Rest and Recovery

Avoid weight-bearing or using the joint until cleared by your physiotherapist or doctor.
Use braces or support if prescribed to stabilise the joint during the healing phase.

2. Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy plays a critical role in regaining strength, mobility, and function after a dislocation. Key goals include:

Pain management: Using techniques like ice therapy, dry needling, or soft tissue massage.
Restoring mobility: Gentle range-of-motion exercises to regain movement without straining the joint.
Strengthening exercises: Gradual strengthening of the surrounding muscles to support the joint and prevent instability.

3. Gradual Return to Sport

Plyometric and sport-specific drills are introduced as the player regains strength and confidence.
We work closely with players to ensure they’re match-ready without risking re-injury.

Preventing Dislocations in Rugby and Football

While some injuries are unavoidable in high-contact sports, there are ways to reduce the risk of dislocations:

Strength training: Build muscle strength around vulnerable joints like shoulders and knees.
Proper technique: Tackling, landing, and ball-handling techniques can minimise impact.
Warm-up and flexibility: Dynamic stretching and warm-up exercises prepare joints for the game.
Protective gear: Shoulder pads and braces can offer additional support in high-risk players.

Why Physiotherapy is Essential for Recovery

Dislocations are not just about resetting the joint—it’s about rebuilding the body’s resilience. Without proper rehabilitation, there’s a higher risk of chronic instability or repeat dislocations.

At Elite Health and Performance, we provide tailored physiotherapy programs designed for rugby and football players, focusing on recovery, prevention, and peak performance.

Get Back in the Game Safely with Elite Health and Performance

If you’ve experienced a dislocation, don’t rush back to the field without expert guidance. At Elite Health and Performance, we specialise in helping rugby and football players recover safely and prevent future injuries.

Mitch Hills10 January 2025Comment