Dislocated Shoulder: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the cup-shaped socket that's part of the shoulder blade (scapula). This injury is common due to the shoulder being the body's most flexible joint, making it more susceptible to dislocation. Immediate medical attention is essential for a suspected dislocated shoulder. Most people recover full use of their shoulder within a few weeks, but once a shoulder dislocates, it may be prone to repeat dislocations.
Symptoms
A dislocated shoulder presents several noticeable symptoms, including:
- Visibly deformed or out-of-place shoulder
- Swelling or bruising
- Intense pain
- Inability to move the joint
Additional symptoms might include numbness, weakness, or tingling near the injury, such as in the neck or down the arm. Muscle spasms in the shoulder can exacerbate the pain.
When to See a Doctor
Immediate medical attention is necessary for a shoulder that appears dislocated. While waiting for medical care:
- Do not move the joint: Splint or sling the shoulder joint in the position it's in. Do not attempt to move the shoulder or force it back into place, as this can cause further damage to the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues.
- Ice the injured joint: Apply ice to the shoulder to help reduce pain and swelling.
Causes
The shoulder joint is the most frequently dislocated joint in the body due to its range of motion. Dislocations can occur forward, backward, or downward, and may be complete or partial.
Common Causes
- Sports injuries: Common in contact sports like football and hockey, and sports involving falls, such as downhill skiing, gymnastics, and volleyball.
- Non-sports trauma: A hard blow to the shoulder during a motor vehicle accident can cause dislocation.
- Falls: Landing awkwardly after a fall, such as from a ladder or tripping, can dislocate a shoulder.
Risk Factors
Dislocated shoulders are most common in people in their teens and 20s, particularly athletes involved in contact sports.
Complications
A dislocated shoulder can lead to several complications:
- Tearing of muscles, ligaments, and tendons: The soft tissues that reinforce the shoulder joint may be damaged.
- Nerve or blood vessel damage: Nerves or blood vessels around the shoulder joint can be injured.
- Recurrent dislocations: Once dislocated, the shoulder joint becomes more prone to future dislocations.
Severe injuries may require surgical repair for torn ligaments or tendons, or damaged nerves or blood vessels.
Prevention
To prevent a dislocated shoulder:
- Avoid falls and shoulder injuries: Be cautious to minimize the risk of falls.
- Wear protective gear: Use appropriate protective equipment when playing contact sports.
- Exercise regularly: Maintain strength and flexibility in joints and muscles through regular exercise.
After a dislocation, continue with prescribed strength and stability exercises to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Conclusion
A dislocated shoulder is a common injury that requires prompt medical attention for proper treatment and to prevent further complications. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods can help manage and reduce the risk of shoulder dislocations, ensuring better joint health and functionality.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Dislocated shoulder. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dislocated-shoulder/symptoms-causes/syc-20371715
- MedlinePlus. (2020). Shoulder Dislocation. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/shoulderdislocation.html
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2020). Shoulder Dislocation. OrthoInfo. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/shoulder-dislocation
By following appropriate preventive measures and understanding the condition, individuals can minimize the risk and impact of shoulder dislocations.
