Shoulder Dislocation: Overview, Causes, Treatment, and Recovery

1. Shoulder Dislocation: Overview, Causes, Treatment, and Recovery A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) is displaced from the glenoid cavity (shoulder socket) of the scapula (shoulder blade). The shoulder joint, known as the glenohumeral joint, is the most mobile joint in the human body—making it especially vulnerable to dislocation. There are several types of dislocations: Anterior dislocation (most common, ~95%): The head of the humerus is pushed forward. Posterior dislocation: The humerus moves backward. Inferior dislocation: The humerus moves downward (rare). Causes and Risk Factors Common Causes: Trauma (e.g., falls, car accidents, sports injuries) Sudden twisting or pulling of the arm Seizures or electric shocks (associated with posterior dislocations) Risk Factors: Previous dislocation (recurrence is common) Participation in contact or overhead sports Joint hypermobility or loose ligaments Congenital conditions affecting joint stability

2. Signs and Symptoms Sudden, intense pain in the shoulder Visible deformity or shoulder appearing “out of place” Inability to move the arm Swelling and bruising Numbness or tingling in the arm, hand, or fingers (possible nerve involvement) Muscle spasms Diagnosis Diagnosis is typically made based on: Physical examination (limited range of motion, visible deformity) Imaging tests: oX-ray: Confirms the dislocation and rules out fractures oMRI or CT scan: Evaluates soft tissue damage (e.g., labrum, rotator cuff, ligaments) Treatment Options Immediate Care (Reduction): Closed reduction: A healthcare provider manipulates the shoulder to return the bone to its proper position. Performed under sedation or anesthesia. Open reduction (surgical): Required if closed reduction fails or if there are associated fractures or soft tissue injuries. Post-Reduction Management: Immobilization using a sling or brace (1–3 weeks) Pain management with NSAIDs or prescribed medications Ice application to reduce swelling Rehabilitation: Begins with gentle range-of-motion exercises Progresses to strengthening the rotator cuff and stabilizing muscles May continue for several weeks to months Surgical Intervention Surgery may be required if: There are repeated dislocations (chronic instability) Ligaments, labrum, or rotator cuff are torn A fracture occurs with the dislocation

3. Common surgical procedures: Bankart repair (labrum reattachment) Latarjet procedure (bone transfer to increase joint stability) Arthroscopic shoulder stabilization Complications Recurrent shoulder dislocations Nerve or blood vessel injury Chronic shoulder instability Arthritis of the shoulder joint Rotator cuff injury Prevention Proper warm-up and stretching before activity Strengthening shoulder muscles, especially the rotator cuff Avoiding high-risk movements, especially in contact sports Wearing protective gear if appropriate Conclusion Shoulder dislocation is a common injury that can often be effectively treated with timely medical attention and rehabilitation. Early diagnosis, proper reduction, and dedicated physical therapy are key to restoring full function and preventing recurrence. Surgical treatment may be necessary in cases of instability or repeated dislocations. Contact us :- Dr. Ishan Shevate - Shoulder & Knee Arthroscopy Surgeon in Erandwane, Pune Phone - 9405783493 E-mail - drishanshevateorthopedic@gmail.com Website -https://drishanshevateortho.com Address - Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Centre, Vakil Nagar, Erandwane, Pune, Maharashtra 411004