What causes visible deformity after injury?

A broken bone can shift out of alignment, making a limb look bent, shortened, or angled. A joint can also move out of its normal position; this is a dislocation. An Ankle Fracture, Clavicle Fracture, or Distal Radius Fracture may visibly alter the outline of the injured area. Elbow Dislocation, Patellar Dislocation, and Shoulder Dislocation can produce an abnormal joint contour and inability to move normally. Swelling and bruising may add to the appearance, but they do not explain every deformity.

Do not try to straighten the area. The injury may involve blood vessels, nerves, skin, or nearby tissues even if the skin is not broken.

Keep the injured part still in the position found, using gentle support around it without forcing alignment. Remove rings, watches, or tight items before swelling increases. Cover an open wound with a clean dressing, and avoid food or drink if urgent treatment may be needed. Arrange emergency medical assessment so the limb can be examined and safely immobilised.

A visible deformity after injury warrants urgent assessment. Call emergency services if the hand or foot becomes pale, blue, cold, or numb; if there is uncontrolled bleeding; if bone is visible; or if pain is severe and the person cannot move or safely be moved. Do not drive yourself when the injury affects safe control of a vehicle.

Is the deformity due to a fracture, dislocation, or swelling? Are the nerves and circulation intact? Will imaging be needed? How should the area be supported, and when can movement begin?