A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) is pushed out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). It is one of the most common joint dislocations due to the shoulder’s wide range of motion and relative instability. Here’s an overview:
Types of Shoulder Dislocations
1) Anterior Dislocation (most common, ~95% of cases):
- The humerus moves forward from the socket.
- Usually caused by trauma such as a fall on an outstretched arm.
2) Posterior Dislocation (less common):
- The humerus moves backward.
- Often associated with seizures, electrical shock or direct trauma.
3) Inferior Dislocation (rare):
- The humerus moves downward.
- Can result from severe trauma.
Symptoms
- Severe pain in the shoulder.
- Visible deformity (shoulder may look “flattened”).
- Swelling and bruising.
- Difficulty or inability to move the arm.
- Numbness or weakness in the hand or arm (may indicate nerve or vascular injury).
Causes
- Trauma: Sports injuries, falls, or car accidents.
- Overuse: Activities with repetitive shoulder motions (e.g., swimming, baseball).
- Congenital Factors: Some people have loose tendons and loose shoulder blades.
Treatment
1) Immediate First Aid:
- Immobilize the arm with a sling or support against the chest.
- Don’t try to pop the shoulder back yourself; Improper reduction can worsen the injury.
2) Medical Management:
- Reduction: A healthcare provider manipulates the arm to reposition the bundle.
- Imaging: X-rays to confirm the dislocation and rule out fractures.
- Pain Relief: Pain medications or muscle relaxants.
- Immobilization: Use of a sling for a few weeks.
3) Rehabilitation:
- Physical therapy to restore range of motion, strengthen muscles, and prevent future dislocations.
4) Surgical Intervention (if needed):
- Repeated dislocations or significant ligament damage may require surgery to stabilize the joint.
Complications
- Nerve or blood vessel injury.
- Rotator cuff tears.
- Chronic shoulder instability (increased risk of recurrent dislocations).
- Arthritis in the joint over time.
Prevention
- Strengthen shoulder and surrounding muscles with exercises.
- Avoid high-risk activities after an anterior dislocation, unless cleared by a doctor.
- Use protective gear in contact sports.
If you or anyone else suspects a shoulder dislocation, seek immediate medical attention for proper treatment.