A shoulder dislocation is when the upper arm bone (humerus) comes out of the shoulder joint socket (glenoid). It is the most frequently dislocated major joint in the body.

Common Symptoms

• Severe pain in the shoulder area, especially with movement
• Swelling and bruising around the shoulder
• Numbness or weakness in the arm or hand
• Deformity or abnormal shape of the shoulder
• Inability to move the shoulder joint

Cause & Anatomy

Causes of Shoulder Dislocation:

• Forceful impact or trauma to the shoulder, such as from a fall, sports injury, or motor vehicle accident
• Extreme rotation or overhead motion of the arm
• Weak shoulder muscles or previous shoulder injury

Anatomy of Shoulder Dislocation:

• Humerus (upper arm bone)
• Glenoid (shallow socket in the shoulder blade)
• Ligaments and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to check for deformity, swelling, and limited range of motion
• X-rays to confirm dislocation and check for fractures
• Sometimes CT scan or MRI for further evaluation

Prevention

• Maintaining shoulder muscle strength and flexibility through exercise
• Proper technique and protective gear in sports
• Avoiding high-risk activities if you have a history of shoulder instability

Treatment

• Closed reduction: Gently manipulating the arm to reposition the humerus back into the socket, often under sedation or anesthesia
• Immobilization with a sling for several weeks
• Pain medication and icing to reduce swelling
• Physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength

Surgery

Surgery may be recommended for:

• Severe ligament or tendon tears
• Recurrent dislocations despite non-surgical treatment
• Procedures may involve repairing torn tissues or tightening the joint

Rehabilitation After Surgery

• Immobilization for several weeks to allow healing
• Gradual range of motion and strengthening exercises
• Return to full activities may take several months

FAQ’s

How long does it take to recover from a dislocated shoulder?
Recovery time varies but can take several weeks to months depending on severity.

Can a dislocated shoulder heal on its own?
Rarely, a partial dislocation may self-reduce, but medical treatment is still recommended.

Will I need surgery for a dislocated shoulder?
Surgery is often not needed for a first-time dislocation without significant tissue damage.