Dislocated Shoulder

Description:

The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint of the body, which can also make it easy to dislocate. Subluxation of the shoulder is a partial dislocation where the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) is partially out of the socket. A complete dislocation is when it is all the way out of the socket, however both can cause pain and instability in the shoulder.

Symptoms:

Common signs to looks out for include; swelling, numbness, weakness and bruising.

Treatment:

A closed reduction, where the doctor places the ball of the upper arm bone back into the socket is performed which almost immediately stops the severe pain.

Recovery:

Immobilisation in a sling for several weeks as well as rest and ice are usual protocols for dislocated shoulder. Once the swelling has settled, physiotherapy exercises will be prescribed to help restore range of motion and strength and also to assist in preventing further dislocations.