Shoulder Dislocation

Shoulder dislocations are common injuries, especially among athletes and active individuals. They can cause intense pain, limited mobility, and long-term issues if not treated properly.

At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, we specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder dislocations, helping patients in Northeastern Ohio to recover fully and regain their range of motion. Schedule an appointment at one of our offices today!

What is a Dislocated Shoulder?

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the ball of the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket. This injury compromises the stability of the shoulder joint, which is the most mobile joint in the body. The injury may involve stretching or tearing of shoulder muscles, ligaments, and tendons, potentially leading to long-term instability.

There are two main types of dislocations:

  • Complete dislocation: The upper arm bone is entirely out of the shoulder socket.
  • Partial dislocation (subluxation): The upper arm bone is partially displaced but remains somewhat connected to the shoulder socket.
A woman in pain caused by a dislocated shoulder in Chardon, Ohio.

How to Tell if Your Shoulder is Dislocated

Common symptoms of a dislocated shoulder include:

  • Severe pain in the shoulder joint or upper arm.
  • A visibly deformed or out-of-place shoulder.
  • Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the shoulder blade or upper arm.
  • Inability to move the shoulder or arm fully, with a noticeable loss of range of motion.
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the shoulder or arm.
 

If you suspect your shoulder is dislocated, avoid moving the arm and seek medical care immediately.

Causes and Risk Factors of Shoulder Dislocation

Shoulder dislocations often result from sudden trauma or extreme force on the shoulder joint. Some common causes include:

  • Sports injuries: High-impact activities like football, basketball, and gymnastics increase the risk.
  • Automobile accidents: A blow to the upper arm during an automobile accident can cause a dislocation.
  • Falls: Landing on an outstretched arm or directly on the shoulder can cause a dislocation.
 

Risk factors include the following:

  • A history of prior dislocated shoulders.
  • Congenital hypermobility of the joints.

How is a Dislocated Shoulder Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a dislocated shoulder requires a thorough physical examination and imaging tests:

Treatment Options for Dislocated Shoulders

Treating a dislocated shoulder involves reducing pain, restoring the joint, and preventing further injuries:

  1. Closed reduction: The doctor will manually reposition the upper arm bone back into the shoulder socket. This process, called a closed reduction, often provides immediate relief.
  2. Immobilization: A sling or brace is typically used to stabilize the shoulder for a few weeks.
  3. Physical therapy: Rehabilitation is essential to strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve the range of motion, and prevent recurrence.
  4. Surgery: Severe cases involving torn ligaments, fractures, or recurrent dislocations may require surgical intervention to stabilize the shoulder joint.

Recovery from a Dislocated Shoulder

Recovery from a dislocated shoulder depends on the severity of the injury and adherence to treatment. Key factors in recovery include the following:

Most patients regain full use of their shoulder within a few months. Athletes can typically return to sports after completing rehabilitation, but ongoing exercises may be necessary to maintain shoulder strength and flexibility.

Get Expert Shoulder Care Today

Shoulder dislocations can disrupt your life, but with the right care, you can make a full recovery. At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our experienced team is committed to helping you reduce pain, restore function, and return to the activities you love. We serve patients in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, OH, providing specialized treatment for shoulder injuries and other musculoskeletal conditions.

Schedule a consultation today if you’re dealing with a shoulder dislocation or other shoulder issues! Let us help you get back to feeling your best.

Medically reviewed by Michael J. Kellis, D.O., FAOASM