Shoulder Dislocation

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops completely out of the shoulder blade socket (glenoid), causing joint instability and acute distress.

Symptoms

• Severe shoulder pain and visible joint deformity
• Inability to move the arm
• Rapid swelling and bruising
• Numbness, weakness, or tingling radiating down the arm

Causes

• High-impact sports collisions (football, hockey, rugby)
• Falls onto an outstretched arm or hard surface
• Sudden traumatic impacts, such as motor vehicle accidents

Risk Factors

• Participation in contact or overhead sports
• History of previous shoulder dislocations
• Naturally loose ligaments (joint hypermobility)

Diagnosis

Premier Orthopaedics specialists evaluate range of motion and utilize digital X-rays and MRI scans to confirm dislocation and check for labral tears or fractures.

Treatment

• Closed Reduction: Gentle manipulation to place the bone back into the socket
• Immobilization: Sling support to allow soft tissue healing
• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to restore strength and prevent recurrence
• Minimally Invasive Surgery: Labrum or ligament repair for recurrent instability