Dislocated Shoulder: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of a dislocated shoulder?

The symptoms of a dislocated shoulder can vary depending on the severity of the dislocation, but they typically include:

1. Intense Pain: A dislocated shoulder is usually very painful, especially with movement or if pressure is applied to the shoulder.
2. Swelling: The shoulder may become swollen and bruised due to inflammation and damage to the surrounding tissues.
3. Visible Deformity: In some cases, a dislocated shoulder may cause a visible deformity or bulge in the shoulder area where the joint is out of place.
4. Limited Range of Motion: You may have difficulty moving your shoulder or arm, and you may not be able to raise your arm above your head or rotate it properly.
5. Weakness or Numbness: You may experience weakness or numbness in the affected arm or hand, which can occur due to nerve compression or damage.
6. Instability: After a dislocation, the shoulder joint may feel loose or unstable, and you may feel like your shoulder is slipping out of place.
7. Popping or Clicking Sensation: You may hear or feel a popping or clicking sensation in the shoulder joint when you move your arm.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect a dislocated shoulder, as prompt treatment can help prevent further damage and reduce the risk of complications.

What are the causes of a dislocated shoulder?

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). This can happen due to a variety of causes, including:

1. Trauma: The most common cause of a dislocated shoulder is trauma or injury to the shoulder joint. This can occur from a fall onto an outstretched arm, a direct blow to the shoulder, or a forceful impact, such as in a car accident or sports injury.
2. Sports Injuries: Athletes, especially those involved in contact sports or activities that involve repetitive overhead movements (such as swimming, tennis, or volleyball), are at a higher risk of dislocating their shoulders.
3. Joint Laxity: Some people are born with looser ligaments and joints, a condition known as joint laxity or hypermobility, which can increase the risk of shoulder dislocations.
4. Previous Dislocation: Once a shoulder has been dislocated, it becomes more susceptible to future dislocations due to stretching or tearing of the ligaments and tissues that support the joint.
5. Seizures or Electric Shocks: Severe muscle contractions that occur during a seizure or an electric shock can sometimes force the shoulder out of its socket.
6. Degenerative Conditions: In older adults, degenerative conditions such as arthritis can weaken the shoulder joint, making it more prone to dislocation.
7. Improper Lifting: Lifting heavy objects improperly or with poor body mechanics can put excessive strain on the shoulder joint, leading to dislocation.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect a dislocated shoulder, as prompt treatment can help prevent further damage and reduce the risk of complications. A healthcare provider can properly diagnose the dislocation and recommend appropriate treatment.

What is the treatment for a dislocated shoulder?

The treatment for a dislocated shoulder typically involves manual reduction (realigning the joint) followed by immobilization and rehabilitation. Here’s an overview of the treatment process:

1. Manual Reduction: A healthcare provider, such as an orthopedic specialist or an emergency room physician, will perform a manual manipulation to realign the dislocated shoulder joint. This procedure is usually done under sedation or anesthesia to help relax the muscles and reduce pain. The provider will gently guide the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) back into the shoulder socket (glenoid).
2. Immobilization: After the shoulder is reduced, it may be necessary to immobilize the joint to allow the surrounding tissues to heal. This may involve wearing a sling or shoulder immobilizer for a period of time, typically several weeks, to prevent movement of the shoulder joint.
3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be recommended to help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
4. Ice Packs: Applying ice packs to the shoulder can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
5. Physical Therapy: Once the initial pain and swelling have subsided, physical therapy may be recommended to help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder joint. Physical therapy exercises should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider to prevent re-injury.
6. Follow-up Care: It is important to follow up with a healthcare provider after a dislocated shoulder to monitor healing and ensure that the joint is functioning properly. X-rays may be taken to assess the alignment of the bones and check for any complications.

In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair damaged tissues or to stabilize the shoulder joint if conservative treatments are not effective. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of your injury and your individual needs.