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Volar Subluxation - Definition, Permitted Movements, Diagnosis, and Management

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Volar Subluxation - Definition, Permitted Movements, Diagnosis, and Management

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Volar subluxation of the metacarpophalangeal joint is a rare form of injury that occurs when the force is directed to the palm. Read on to know more.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Suman Saurabh

Published At July 29, 2022
Reviewed AtFebruary 28, 2023

What Are Metacarpophalangeal Joints?

The metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP) are a group of condyloid joints that connect the palm to the fingers. In simple terms, it is the junction of the fingers and the hand bones. The significance of the MCP joint is that it allows the movement of the fingers in different directions. For example, the fingers bend, straighten, and spread apart with the help of the MCP joint. They also help to pinch or grasp objects. Usually, the five metacarpophalangeal joints connect each metacarpal bone to the finger's bone. The primary movements of MCP joints are flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction.

What Is Volar Subluxation?

Volar dislocation or subluxation occurs due to the weakening of the ligaments that form the fingers and the thumb. The condition is known as volar subluxation when the ligaments that cause extension of the fingers or the thumb become weak. It is commonly seen due to the injuries or forces directed onto the fingers' bones resulting in the joints' hyperflexion. The typical feature of volar subluxation is that the fingers appear flexed, and the patient cannot extend them. Volar subluxation might occur in late childhood or early adolescence with decreased motion and minimal pain. As the age increases, this deformity worsens in appearance.

What Movements Are Permitted by the MCP Joints?

The movements of the metacarpophalangeal joints are listed below:

  • Flexion and Extension - Flexion and extension are considered the most important movements of the MCP joints. The range of motion of flexion is approximately 90 degrees, whereas the range of extension is between 10 degrees in the index finger to 30 degrees in the little finger. The full range of motion of the MCP joint that is present in the thumb is 60 degrees. Structures known as ligaments are present around the joints and the muscles. These ligaments limit the flexion movements on this joint.

  • Adduction and Abduction - The range of motion in abduction (to draw away the limbs from a position) is around 25 to 30 degrees. The structure of the metacarpophalangeal joint restricts these movements. When a person flexes the fingers, the ligaments present in that area prevent the abduction and the adduction (to draw the limbs towards the position) of the joints. Axial rotation is one of the most important movements of the MCP joints, and it can be active or passive. Active rotation will always be directed towards the medial surface of the joint. On the contrary, a passive rotation can occur in any direction.

How Is Volar Subluxation of the MCP Joint Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of the volar subluxation can be made with the help of clinical and radiographic features. A thorough medical history, physical examination, and radiological examination must be made to confirm the diagnosis. The diagnostic methods have been described below:

  • Medical History - A medical history is a verbal communication between the doctor and the patient. It helps the doctor recognize the patient’s illness and gives him a general idea about his medical condition. For example, a patient suffering from volar subluxation might present with pain and hyperflexion of the affected finger.

  • Physical Examination - The doctor might examine the patient physically to check for the clinical signs of volar subluxation. The patient might present with pain, swelling, deformation, and limited movements of the MCP joints.

  • Radiologic Examination - A radiologic examination typically involves taking an X-ray of the patient’s finger. The X-ray machine is positioned over the affected hand, and the images are taken. These images help confirm the volar subluxation.

How Is Volar Subluxation of the MCP Joint Managed?

Subluxation or dislocation of the MCP joint is rare, and volar subluxation is the rarest of all MCP joint injuries. It commonly occurs due to hyperflexion or injuries directed to finger bones. Closed reduction is the first treatment option for volar subluxation. However, an open reduction can be made if the closed reduction is unachievable. As per the study reports, injuries like volar subluxation should be treated with open reduction. Volar subluxation of the MCP joints can be classified into stable, unstable, and blocked. Stable volar subluxations can be managed with closed reduction. However, the ligaments might get damaged during the procedure. Stable volar subluxation does not require any surgical intervention. Blocked volar subluxation is difficult to manage with closed reduction because of the presence of soft tissue between the joints. When closed reduction is performed in unstable volar subluxation, the risk of ligament injury and instability increases significantly.

What Is a Closed Reduction Procedure?

When the joint dislocation or subluxation occurs, a closed reduction procedure is done to place the joints back into the socket. This procedure is mostly done in an emergency room. Suppose the ligaments or soft tissues were not damaged during the procedure. In that case, the doctor might suggest resting the affected area and taking anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce the pain and swelling. Once the pain and the swelling have subsided after the procedure, rehabilitation can be done to increase the range of motion and restore muscle strength. The period of recovery depends upon the severity of the injury.

What Are the Benefits of a Closed Reduction Procedure?

The benefits of a closed reduction procedure are listed below:

  1. Reduces the tension on the skin and the swelling.

  2. Improves the chances of recovery of the affected joint.

  3. Reduces pain.

  4. Helps the bone to heal quickly and improves bone strength.

  5. Reduces the risk of bone infections.

How Is a Closed Reduction of the Volar Subluxation of the MCP Joint Done?

Closed reduction is a minor outpatient procedure that is performed under local anesthesia. The patient is taken to the operation room, and an intravenous line is attached to deliver the sedative. An incision is made in the affected MCP joint to expose the volar structures and the ligament. Next, the orthopedic surgeon will set the affected finger bones and joints in the right position. Finally, the skin will be closed with sutures after the stability of the MCP joint is checked. A splint will be placed on the affected area for two weeks to immobilize it. The doctor might call the patient for follow-up after the procedure, and flexion-extension exercises might be recommended to improve joint activities.

What Are the Risks of the Closed Reduction Procedure?

The possible risks of a closed reduction procedure are listed below:

  • The nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissues present around the MCP joint might get injured.

  • A blood clot might form and travel to the other body parts.

  • An allergic reaction might occur after taking the pain medications.

  • New fractures might occur with the reduction procedure.

  • If the closed reduction fails to produce the desired results, surgery might be required.

Conclusion:

Volar subluxation is a rare condition and is not usually seen in daily practice. It can be seen in males and females of any age group. The fingers become flexed due to injuries to the MCP joint. Though closed reduction is commonly preferred for volar subluxation, sometimes open reduction might be made if closed reduction fails to produce the desired results. The patient must not worry as the condition improves after the closed reduction procedure and the volar subluxation is relieved. The patient must consult an orthopedic surgeon to know more about the volar subluxation procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.

What Is Volar Subluxation of the Carpus Called?

Carpus volar subluxation is known as "dorsal intercalated segmental instability" (DISI). Due to partial or complete loss of contact between the carpus and dorsal distal radius in this type of injury, the radiocarpal joint dislocates, inflicting a complicated ligamentous lesion on the wrist's carpal instability complex.

2.

Is Subluxation a Permanent Condition?

The underlying reason, the degree of the subluxation, and the course of treatment all play a role in determining whether subluxation is a permanent condition. Subluxation may occasionally be a transient condition that goes away independently or with conservative treatments, including rest, immobilization, physical therapy, or other non-surgical procedures. The joint may regain stability, and the subluxation may not return with the right care and rehabilitation.

3.

What Is the Main Issue of Subluxation?

A shoulder subluxation occurs when the ball of your upper arm partially slips out of the socket of your shoulder blade or scapula. Shoulder subluxation is most frequently caused by severe trauma or injury. If you have shoulder subluxation, your shoulder may feel loose or as though it is slipping in and out of the socket.

4.

How to Fix a Subluxated Finger?

Treatment for finger dislocations mainly depends on controlling swelling. Rings must be taken off immediately. Ice the affected area. Maintain the finger raised above the heart.


Get support. Visit a doctor as soon as you can, ideally within a day. X-rays and other procedures are required to correct the finger.

5.

What Does the Subluxation of the Joint Thumb Mean?

Thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis frequently manifests as a dorsal subluxation, a sign of ligament elasticity and joint instability. It frequently results from acute injury or repetitive motion injuries, but it can also be brought on by diseases that compromise the strength of ligaments. Subluxations can be treated with joint adjustments, analgesics, physical therapy, and, in extreme circumstances, surgery.

6.

Can Subluxation Be Treated and Repaired?

Volar subluxation treatment and repair are influenced by several variables, such as the underlying etiology, the degree of the subluxation, and the particular patient. A volar subluxation can be successfully treated and healed in some circumstances, but in others, it can need ongoing care or surgical correction. Closed reduction can be used to treat stable volar subluxations. However, the surgery could cause ligament damage. Surgical surgery is not necessary for stable volar subluxation.

7.

Can Subluxation Lead To Paralysis?

Volar subluxation typically does not result in paralysis on its own. A volar subluxation can have a variety of specific conditions and underlying causes. In certain cases, there may also be concomitant nerve involvement or other major injuries that could result in paralysis or neurological problems. This must be kept in mind at all times. Volar subluxation is the medical term for a joint that is partially or totally dislocated, often in the wrist or hand. Joint surfaces typically have a misalignment but not a full separation. Even though this condition has the potential to cause pain, instability, and functional limitations, the spinal cord or the primary nerves that regulate movement are rarely directly impacted by it.

8.

What Type of Specialists Treat Subluxation?

Assessing the subluxation's nature and severity and recommending the best course of action, which may entail one or more specialists cooperating as a multidisciplinary team. Specialists frequently treat subluxation include orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine doctors, hand surgeons, rheumatologists, physical therapists, and chiropractors.

9.

How to Treat Subluxation at Home?

Rest, immobilization with a splint or brace, ice therapy, pain management with over-the-counter medications, elevation to reduce swelling, gentle range-of-motion exercises, heat therapy (after the acute phase), and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are some at-home treatments for subluxation. Professional medical advice is also important. Remember to seek the advice of a qualified medical practitioner for a precise diagnosis.

10.

How Long Does Finger Subluxation Take To Heal by Itself?

The degree of the subluxation, individual healing factors, and the treatment methods used can all affect how long it takes for a finger subluxation to heal. On their own, finger subluxations typically take a few weeks to a few months to recover. It's crucial to remember that several variables can affect the healing process, and some situations might call for extended healing times or additional interventions.

11.

Is Subluxation a Serious Condition?

The significance of a subluxation might vary depending on the joint involved, the degree of misalignment, any accompanying injuries, and the effect on joint stability and function. While some subluxations might be slight and go away independently, others might be more serious and have lasting effects. It is crucial to get a medical diagnosis and the proper therapy for subluxation to stop additional harm, control discomfort, restore joint stability, and reduce potential long-term consequences. A medical professional should evaluate the severity of the subluxation depending on each unique case.

12.

Does Subluxation Need Surgery as Treatment?

The severity of the subluxation, the underlying etiology, and the responsiveness to non-surgical treatments all play a role in determining whether surgery is necessary as a treatment for subluxation. The type of surgery required will depend on the affected joint, the underlying reason for the subluxation, and the intended outcomes. It could be necessary to reconstruct torn tissues, straighten misaligned bones or joints, or fix torn ligaments or structures to regain stability.

13.

Can Subluxation Heal by Itself?

Subluxation may be able to resolve on its own, especially when the misalignment is slight, and there are no comorbid conditions. A subluxation is a temporary or partial dislocation of the joint surfaces that keeps them in contact. The joint can gradually resume its normal position and function with rest, immobilization, and the right self-care techniques.

14.

How to Treat a Subluxated Thumb?

Subluxated thumbs are treated by obtaining medical help for an accurate assessment and decrease of the subluxation. After reduction, immobilize the thumb with a splint or brace explicitly made for that purpose, apply ice to the injured thumb to relieve pain, edema, and inflammation, to control pain and discomfort, and take over-the-counter painkillers. Physical therapy under the direction of a medical expert or physical therapist.

15.

Is Subluxation a Normal Condition?

No, it is not a normal condition. Subluxation is not seen as a typical state. A joint partially or completely dislocated from its usual position while maintaining some contact between the joint surfaces is referred to as subluxing. Many factors, including trauma, repeated stress, ligamentous laxity, and underlying medical disorders, might contribute to it. Subluxations can happen under specific conditions, but they are typically considered abnormal since they interfere with the joint's stability and alignment. Pain, edema, a reduction in range of motion, and functional restrictions can all be brought on by subluxations. They may cause additional joint injury or instability if untreated or recurring.

16.

Can MRI Detect Subluxation Conditions?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sheds light on the distribution of soft tissue damage (ligaments) and spinal cord damage (compression, transection, and central cord syndrome). When evaluating the potential compression of brain structures by MRI, the maximum extent of the subluxation must be considered.

17.

How to Improve Subluxation Conditions?

Subluxation can be improved by the following:


Stand near a wall with your injured arm extended.


As you shake someone's hand, bend your arm up so your elbow forms a 90-degree angle (like the letter "L").


- Hold your elbow and forearm near the wall.


- Hold for six counts.


- 8 to 12 times total.

18.

What Is the Recovery Period for Subluxation?

Typically, small subluxations can be treated with rest, physical therapy, and over-the-counter painkillers for a few weeks to help recover subluxation. It can take several months to repair a more serious subluxation. Thus, the recovery period depends on its severity.

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Dr. Suman Saurabh
Dr. Suman Saurabh

Orthopedician and Traumatology

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