Understanding shoulder dislocation — a condition that can occur in people of any gender or age. Learn about its symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options in this article.
The shoulder joint has the greatest range of motion in the body, making it more vulnerable to damage than other joints. Let’s look at “shoulder dislocation,” a condition anyone can experience. The good news: it’s treatable and not as dangerous as you might think. Here’s how to recognize a dislocated shoulder and how it’s treated.
What is a shoulder dislocation?
Shoulder dislocation is relatively common because the shoulder is the body’s most mobile joint. Despite its flexibility, risky movements can lead to dislocation—when the humeral head comes out of the socket or no longer sits correctly in it.
Most dislocations occur anteriorly due to awkward movements and weakness of the soft tissues around the shoulder joint. Trauma that causes tearing increases the chance of dislocation.
What are the symptoms of a dislocated shoulder?
A dislocated shoulder can be noticed visually and by symptoms such as pain around the joint. Key signs include:
- The humeral head slips out of the shoulder socket. Although dislocations most often occur to the front, they can also be lateral or posterior.
- Visible deformity of the shoulder. A lump may appear on one side while the opposite and lateral areas look flattened.
- Pain in the shoulder and surrounding area, sometimes severe enough to prevent moving or lifting the arm.
- Sharp, stabbing pain or pins-and-needles, with tingling or shooting pain into the neck or arm.
- Muscle spasm or twitching, which can worsen the pain.
Causes of shoulder dislocation
Shoulder dislocation can happen to anyone, but the risk is higher in people who use their shoulders intensively, such as:
- Athletes in contact or impact sports that heavily use the shoulder
- Athletes who frequently raise the arm overhead, which increases the risk of shoulder joint dislocation
- People whose bodies are still developing or who have age-related degeneration, making dislocation more likely without caution
- Individuals with joint laxity, whose joints dislocate more easily than normal
How is a shoulder dislocation treated?
Initial first aid and medical care include:
First aid
- Do not attempt to relocate the shoulder yourself. Forcing it back can damage muscles, tendons, and other structures around the joint and may cause fractures or additional soft-tissue tears.
- Support the arm with a sling or pillow. Use a sling, pillow, or cloth to support the elbow and limit movement. Keep the arm in the most comfortable position.
- Apply a cold compress. For pain and swelling at the shoulder, use cold packs before seeing a doctor.
Surgical treatment
Modern medical technology offers effective surgical options. Arthroscopic surgery uses small incisions, causes less tissue damage, and shortens recovery time.
Patients with shoulder dislocation can receive first aid and definitive treatment 24/7 at the Orthopedics & Joints Department, Synphaet Ramintra Hospital.
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or call for appointments and more information at 02-793-5000
