Dislocated shoulder

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Prab R. Tumpati, MD — Editor-in-Chief, WikiMD Medical Encyclopedia
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Dislocated shoulder
File:Dislocated shoulder X-ray 10.png
Synonyms	Shoulder dislocation
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pain, instability, deformity of the shoulder
Complications	Nerve injury, blood vessel injury, recurrent dislocation
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Variable, depending on treatment
Types	N/A
Causes	Trauma, fall, sports injury
Risks	Contact sports, previous dislocation, loose ligaments
Diagnosis	Physical examination, X-ray, MRI
Differential diagnosis	Fracture, rotator cuff tear, brachial plexus injury
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Reduction (orthopedic), immobilization, physical therapy
Medication	Pain relievers, muscle relaxants
Prognosis	Good with treatment, risk of recurrence
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

File:Shoulder dislocation, Y-projection before reduction.jpg

Shoulder dislocation, Y-projection before reduction

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) is displaced from its socket in the scapula (shoulder blade), constituting a dislocation of the Shoulder joint. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and immobility in the shoulder.

Causes

Dislocations of the shoulder can result from a fall, a direct blow to the shoulder, or an extreme rotation of the arm. Activities that can increase the risk include sports (e.g., football, basketball, and volleyball), accidents, or falls.

File:Shoulder dislocation with Bankart and Hill-Sachs lesion, before and after reduction.svg

Shoulder dislocation with Bankart and Hill-Sachs lesion, before and after reduction

Symptoms

Symptoms of a dislocated shoulder include visible deformity, pain, swelling, bruising, and inability to move the joint. The area around the shoulder may appear swollen or contorted, and the pain can be severe.

Treatment

Treatment for a dislocated shoulder often involves a process called Reduction, where a doctor may manually maneuver the arm bone back into its socket. After reduction, treatment may include immobilization of the shoulder using a sling or other device, followed by physical therapy to restore mobility and strengthen the muscles around the shoulder.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the recovery and prevention of future dislocations. It typically involves exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and stability of the shoulder joint.

Prevention

Preventative measures include strengthening shoulder muscles, practicing proper techniques in sports and physical activities, and avoiding situations that put the shoulder at risk of injury.

See Also

• Joint dislocation
• Physical therapy

External Links

• Mayo Clinic - Dislocated Shoulder
• WebMD - Shoulder Dislocation

References

• "Shoulder Dislocation." OrthoInfo - AAOS.
• "Management of Dislocated Shoulder." PubMed Central. [1]