Shoulder Dislocation: What You Need to Know
Published: May 08, 2024
Shoulder dislocations are common injuries that occur when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket. They can be painful and limit arm movement.
Contents
Types and Causes
There are three main types of shoulder dislocations: anterior (most common), posterior, and inferior. They're usually caused by trauma like falls, sports injuries, or car accidents. The shoulder is prone to dislocation because it's a very mobile joint with a shallow socket.
Signs and Symptoms
Common signs include severe shoulder pain, a visibly deformed or out-of-place shoulder, swelling, and inability to move the arm. You may also experience numbness, weakness, or tingling in the arm or hand.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A doctor will examine your shoulder and may order X-rays to confirm the dislocation. Treatment involves carefully moving the arm bone back into the socket, called reduction. This is often done with medication for pain and muscle relaxation. After reduction, you'll need to keep the arm immobilized and do physical therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
They account for about 50% of all major joint dislocations.
It's not recommended - seek medical help to avoid further injury.
Recurrence is common, especially in young people and athletes.
Full recovery typically takes 12-16 weeks with proper care.
Key Takeaways
While painful, shoulder dislocations are treatable with prompt medical care and proper rehabilitation.
If you suspect a shoulder dislocation, don't delay - talk to Doctronic about proper diagnosis and treatment options.Related Articles
References
Zacchilli MA, Owens BD. Epidemiology of shoulder dislocations presenting to emergency departments in the United States. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2010; 92:542.
Kuhn JE. Treating the initial anterior shoulder dislocation--an evidence-based medicine approach. Sports Med Arthrosc 2006; 14:192.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.