Dislocated Shoulder & Shoulder Instability
What Causes a Dislocated Shoulder?
The shoulder joint is highly mobile, making it susceptible to dislocations. A dislocated shoulder occurs when the ball-and-socket joint separates due to trauma, falls, or repetitive overhead movements.
Who is at Risk?
Athletes participating in contact sports like football, basketball, and hockey are at higher risk. Overhead sports such as volleyball, tennis, and swimming also increase the likelihood of shoulder instability.
Symptoms of a Dislocated Shoulder
- Severe pain in the shoulder and arm
- Muscle spasms
- Visible displacement of the shoulder
- Difficulty moving the arm
- Popping or grinding sensation
- Numbness or weakness in the arm
Shoulder Instability Symptoms
- Recurrent dislocations
- Shoulder feeling loose or unstable
- Popping or grinding sensations
- Weakness, particularly in the rotator cuff
- Intermittent numbness in the arm and fingers
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
Using a shoulder sling, rest, ice therapy, and physical therapy can help strengthen the joint. Anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroid injections may also be recommended.
Surgical Treatments
Severe cases may require arthroscopic surgery to repair damaged ligaments. For recurrent dislocations, open surgery may be needed to restore shoulder stability.
