Shoulder Dislocation

Shoulder dislocations are among the most common shoulder injuries, especially in contact sports. Most cases of dislocations involve an anterior dislocation, where the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) is forced forwards, in front of the shoulder joint.

This usually occurs when the arm is forced into external rotation and abduction (lifting and rotating the arm away from the body). Dislocations can also be posterior, inferior or superior, but these occur very rarely.

Although shoulder dislocations are sometimes considered to be a minor injury, they can involve a substantial amount of soft tissue damage including muscle, tendon, nerve and labrum tears, as well as fractures. For this reason shoulder dislocation should be assessed thoroughly prior to reduction ('popping' the shoulder back) and may require considerable rehabilitation. If a shoulder is not strengthened properly following such an injury, then future dislocations are likely. If a shoulder is repetitively dislocated, then the shoulder is classed as unstable and will require extensive rehabilitation to restore its stability.

Symptoms

• Sudden, severe pain following a trauma to the shoulder joint.
• The shoulder usually appears deformed and without the usual rounded shape of the shoulder.
• A feeling of the shoulder 'popping out'.
• The patient will hold the arm in close to their body.
• If there is nerve involvement there may be tingling or numbness in the arm or hand.

Treatment

Immediate treatment should involve seeking medical advice as soon as possible. You should never attempt to reduce (put back) a dislocation yourself. You should aim to protect the shoulder joint (immobilise if possible) to prevent further damage and seek medical advice.

Usually before a shoulder is reduced, an x-ray will be taken to determine if there are any fractures or damage to other structures. If not, then the shoulder will be put back using a specialist method. Following this, a rehabilitation plan should be implemented:

• Rest and immobilise for up to a week.
• Your Doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatories to help ease any pain.
• Following immobilisation you will need to gradually increase the range of movement at the shoulder joint.
• All exercises should be performed pain-free.
• Strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff especially should begin as soon as comfortable.

Further Information

• Shoulder dislocation - for further information on treatment including rehabilitation, taping, sports massage, stretching and more visit sportsinjuryclinic.net