Shoulder Dislocation and Recurrent Instability

About Dislocated Shoulder

The shoulder is a shallow ball and socket joint. This allows fantastic range of movement, but also makes it an inherently unstable joint. The socket is made deeper by a rim of fibrocartilage (labrum). Additional stability is provided by thickenings of the joint capsule (ligaments) and the rotator cuff muscles. Shoulder stability relies upon these ligaments remaining intact and the muscles being strong.

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the ball (humerus) comes out of the socket (glenoid). This may be partial (subluxation) or full (dislocation). After the first episode, it is likely that the labrum and ligaments will be torn, putting the shoulder at high risk of recurrent episodes of instability. This is especially true for patients under the age of 30 years.

Recurrent shoulder instability following a traumatic shoulder dislocation can be effectively treated by repairing the torn labrum and ligaments. This is most commonly done using keyhole (arthroscopic) surgery and, when using modern techniques, is associated with a high rate of success. The labrum is reattached to the edge of the socket and the ligaments are tightened. This is done using suture anchors inserted into the edge of the socket (glenoid).

Recovery following surgery usually involves staying one night in hospital, and being in a sling for 6 weeks. Most people can drive a car after 6 to 8 weeks. Rehabilitation guidelines to share with your physiotherapist are provided following the surgery. Return sport is usually possible at 6 months

SYMPTOMS

1. Deformity
2. Swelling
3. Numbness
4. Weakness
5. Bruising

TREATMENT: The doctor will place the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) back into the joint socket. This process is called a closed reduction. Severe pain stops almost immediately once the shoulder joint is back in place.