Dr. David Gazzaniga Speaks at CIF About Acute On-Field Management of Joint Dislocations

Posted on: August 24th, 2026 by Our Team

Newport Beach sports medicine surgeon Dr. David Gazzaniga recently spoke to the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) community about the acute on-field management of joint dislocations—serious injuries that require prompt recognition, careful assessment and an appropriate emergency response.

The presentation reflected Dr. Gazzaniga’s commitment to helping protect student-athletes and educating the professionals who care for them. As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, he brings decades of experience treating injuries of the shoulder, elbow, hip and knee. He has also cared for athletes at the high school, Olympic and professional levels.

Understanding Joint Dislocations in Sports

A joint dislocation occurs when the bones forming a joint are forced out of their normal alignment. These injuries may result from a hard fall, collision, awkward landing or sudden twisting movement.

The shoulder is particularly vulnerable because its wide range of motion comes with less inherent stability than many other joints. Athletes may also experience dislocations involving the fingers, elbow, kneecap, hip or other joints.

Common signs of a possible dislocation include:

• Visible deformity or an abnormal joint position
• Sudden, intense pain
• Swelling or bruising
• Loss of movement or inability to bear weight
• Numbness, tingling or weakness below the injured joint

Because fractures, nerve injuries and blood-vessel damage can accompany a dislocation, the injury requires careful evaluation.

The Priorities of On-Field Care

When a suspected dislocation occurs, the immediate goal is to protect the athlete and prevent further injury. Coaches, athletic trainers and medical personnel should stop play, assess the athlete and follow an established emergency action plan.

An on-field evaluation may include checking circulation, sensation and movement beyond the injured area. These findings can help identify possible nerve or vascular complications and guide the urgency of further treatment.

The injured joint should generally be supported in the position in which it was found until qualified medical personnel can evaluate it. Attempts to force a joint back into position without appropriate training may worsen an associated fracture or damage nearby nerves, cartilage, ligaments and blood vessels.

When there is loss of circulation, progressive numbness, an open wound, severe deformity or another sign of a limb-threatening injury, emergency medical care is essential.

Preparation Helps Protect Student-Athletes

Effective sideline care begins well before an injury occurs. Schools and athletic programs benefit from having a clear emergency action plan that defines:

• Who assesses and stabilizes an injured athlete
• Who contacts emergency medical services
• How responders will enter the athletic venue
• Where emergency equipment is located
• How parents or guardians will be notified
• Where the athlete will receive follow-up care

Regularly reviewing and rehearsing this plan can improve communication and reduce confusion during a stressful event.

Dr. Gazzaniga’s presentation also underscored the important role of collaboration among physicians, athletic trainers, coaches, emergency responders, athletes and families. A coordinated response supports timely treatment and helps ensure that decisions remain centered on the athlete’s safety.

Evaluation and Recovery After a Dislocation

Even if a joint appears to return to its normal position, the athlete should still receive a medical evaluation. Imaging may be needed to check for fractures or other damage. An orthopedic specialist can also assess the surrounding cartilage, ligaments, tendons, nerves and blood vessels.

Treatment depends on the joint involved and the severity of the injury. It may include immobilization, medication, physical therapy and a progressive rehabilitation program. Surgery may be considered when there is significant structural damage, persistent instability or repeated dislocation.

Returning to competition too soon can increase the risk of reinjury. Before an athlete resumes sports, the affected joint should demonstrate appropriate strength, mobility, stability and sport-specific function. Return-to-play decisions should be individualized and made with guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Supporting Safer Sports Across Southern California

As a former CIF student-athlete and an experienced team physician, Dr. Gazzaniga understands the importance of knowledgeable medical support at every level of competition. His CIF presentation offered an opportunity to share practical sports medicine insight with those responsible for the health and safety of young athletes.

Through education, preparation and collaboration, schools can respond more effectively when acute orthopedic injuries occur—and help injured athletes receive the right care at the right time.

Dr. David Gazzaniga is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine and the treatment of shoulder, elbow, hip and knee injuries in Newport Beach. To learn more or request an orthopedic evaluation, contact his office.