Shoulder Dislocation

Self Help Guides | Shoulder Conditions | Shoulder Dislocation

Pathophysiology

Dislocations can be after an injury (e.g rugby tackle or car accident and is usually the first incident) or without trauma (minimal force involved e.g reaching or turning in bed). The ball and socket joint of the shoulder is made up of the upper arm bone (Humerus) and the socket (Glenoid), this joint is supported by many ligaments as well as surrounding muscles and soft tissue. The most common direction of dislocation is forwards (anterior) but can also be backwards (posterior) or inferior (downward).

Symptoms

After Injury – may be visible deformity, swelling and bruising
Without Injury – general ache, usually relocates by itself or with minimal help, often hypermobile

Management

Activity modification
Ice or heat
Pain relief
Physiotherapy

Investigations

With Injury – X-ray, usually needs relocating in A&E
Without Injury – normally does not require investigations but physiotherapy can help improve stability and muscular control

Exercises to try

Wall Press Up

Sitting External Rotation

Weighted Abduction

Upright Row

Shoulder Press