Dislocated shoulder

Overview

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) slips out of the cup-shaped socket (glenoid) in the shoulder blade. This injury is painful and often results from trauma, falls, or sports-related incidents. Let’s delve into the specifics.

Types of Dislocated shoulder

1. Anterior Dislocation: The humerus moves forward out of the socket.
2. Posterior Dislocation: The humerus moves backward out of the socket.
3. Inferior Dislocation: The humerus moves downward out of the socket.

Causes of Dislocated shoulder

• Sports Injuries: Common in contact sports like football, rugby, and wrestling.
• Trauma: Motor vehicle accidents or direct blows to the shoulder.
• Falls: Awkward landings, such as falling from a height or slipping on ice.

Risk Factors of Dislocated shoulder

• Age: Most common in teens and young adults.
• Athletes: Especially those participating in contact sports.

Symptoms of Dislocated shoulder

Preventions of Dislocated shoulder

• Protective Gear: Wear appropriate gear during sports.
• Exercise: Strengthen shoulder muscles and maintain flexibility.

Diagnosis of Dislocated shoulder

1. Physical Examination: Assess tenderness, swelling, and deformity.
2. X-ray: Visualize the dislocated shoulder.
3. MRI: Evaluate capsular tears.
4. Treatment Decision: Severity determines the approach.

Treatment for Dislocated shoulder

1. Closed Reduction: Reposition the bone without surgery.
2. Open Reduction: Surgical intervention if closed reduction fails.
3. Bankart Repair: For recurrent dislocations.
4. Immobilization: Sling to prevent movement.
5. Physical Therapy: Restore range of motion and strength.

When to seek medical attention ?

• Urgent: Seek immediate help for a suspected dislocated shoulder.
• Avoid Self-Reduction: Do not try to force the joint back in place.