Overview
A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (ball) pops out of the cup-shaped socket (glenoid) that is part of the shoulder blade. Dislocations can happen due to a strong force, such as a sudden blow or extreme twisting of the shoulder joint. Common causes include sports injuries, trauma not related to sports, and falls. Symptoms may include visible deformity, swelling or bruising, intense pain, inability to move the joint, numbness, weakness, or tingling down the arm. It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you suspect a dislocated shoulder. While waiting for medical help, avoid moving the joint, ice the injured joint, and keep the shoulder joint in the position it's in to prevent further damage.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of a dislocated shoulder can include a visibly deformed or out-of-place shoulder, swelling or bruising, intense pain, inability to move the joint, numbness, weakness or tingling near the injury, and muscle spasms. If you suspect a dislocated shoulder, seek prompt medical attention.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing a dislocated shoulder include:
- Age: Dislocated shoulders most commonly occur in people in their teens and 20s, particularly athletes involved in contact sports.
- Participation in contact sports: Engaging in sports with a higher risk of falls or collisions, such as football, hockey, or soccer, increases the risk of dislocating the shoulder.
- Poor technique or lack of training: Not properly learning and practicing proper techniques for sports or physical activities can increase the likelihood of a shoulder dislocation.
- Previous dislocations: Individuals who have previously dislocated their shoulder are more prone to experiencing another dislocation in the future.
- Weak or unstable muscles: Weak or unstable muscles around the shoulder joint can make it more susceptible to dislocation. Remember, anyone can dislocate their shoulder, but certain factors can increase the risk. It's important to take precautions, wear protective gear, and exercise regularly to maintain joint and muscle strength and flexibility.
Development
Dislocated shoulders can develop due to various reasons, including sports injuries, trauma not related to sports, and falls. The shoulder joint is prone to dislocation because it moves in multiple directions and can be dislocated forward, backward, or downward. Dislocations often occur when there is a sudden blow to the shoulder, extreme twisting, or a fall that causes the upper arm bone to pop out of the shoulder socket. The ligaments connecting the bones can be stretched or torn, making the dislocation worse. Once a shoulder dislocates, it might be more susceptible to repeat dislocations in the future.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor right away if a dislocated shoulder is suspected. The question mentions, "Get medical help right away for a shoulder that appears dislocated," and "while waiting for medical attention: don't move the joint."
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of a dislocated shoulder typically involves a healthcare provider inspecting the affected area for signs of tenderness, swelling, or deformity. The provider may check for any nerve or blood vessel injury and perform an X-ray of the shoulder joint to confirm the dislocation and assess any additional damage, such as broken bones or joint damage.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of a dislocated shoulder include tearing of the muscles, ligaments, and tendons that reinforce the shoulder joint, nerve or blood vessel damage in or around the shoulder joint, and becoming more prone to repeat dislocations, especially if the injury is severe. Stretched or torn ligaments or tendons in the shoulder or damaged nerves or blood vessels around the shoulder might require surgery for repair.
Prevention
dislocated shoulders can be prevented by taking certain precautions. To minimize the risk of a dislocated shoulder, you can:
- Avoid falls and other situations that may lead to falls, such as tripping on loose rugs or ladders.
- Wear protective gear, such as shoulder pads and other safety equipment, when engaging in contact sports or activities that involve a risk of falling or impact.
- Maintain strength and flexibility in the joints and muscles through regular exercise, targeting specific shoulder exercises to improve stability. By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing a dislocated shoulder.
Home Remedies
It is important to seek prompt medical attention for a dislocated shoulder, as home remedies may not be effective and can potentially worsen the condition.
Treatment
A dislocated shoulder can be treated through a combination of methods, including rest, ice, pain relievers, maintaining the range of motion, and potentially immobilization, medication, and rehabilitation. Your healthcare provider will guide you through the appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of the injury. If you suspect a dislocated shoulder, it is important to seek medical attention.
Preparing for medical consultation
When preparing for an appointment for a dislocated shoulder, it's important to gather information and be ready with the following:
- Detailed descriptions of the symptoms and the cause of the injury.
- Information about past medical problems, if any.
- The names and doses of all medications and dietary supplements you take.
- Questions to ask the healthcare provider. Some basic questions to consider include:
- Is my shoulder dislocated?
- What tests do I need?
- What treatment approach do you recommend? Are there alternatives?
- How long will it take my shoulder to heal?
- Will I have to stop playing sports? For how long?
- How can I protect myself from re-injuring my shoulder? Being prepared with this information will help you make the most of your appointment and facilitate a productive conversation with your healthcare provider.