Shoulder Joint Dislocation

Shoulder Joint Dislocation

A shoulder subluxation refers to a partial dislocation of the shoulder joint. This occurs when the ball of the upper arm bone, called the humerus, partly comes out of the glenoid socket in the shoulder.

In a complete dislocation, the humerus is knocked totally out of the socket.
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body. It contains a number of bones, ligaments, and muscles that work together to keep it stable. Because the shoulder is so mobile, it is very susceptible to dislocation.
A shoulder subluxation is often the result of trauma, injury, or a stroke that weakens the arm muscles.
In this article, we discuss the symptoms and treatments of a shoulder subluxation. We also describe the recovery process and exercises that can help.

Medically reviewed by William Morrison, M.D. — Written by Shannon Johnson on May 24, 2018

Outlook:-

• A shoulder subluxation refers to a partial dislocation of the shoulder joint. This occurs when the ball of the upper arm bone, called the humerus, partly comes out of the glenoid socket in the shoulder.
• In a complete dislocation, the humerus is knocked totally out of the socket.
• The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body. It contains a number of bones, ligaments, and muscles that work together to keep it stable. Because the shoulder is so mobile, it is very susceptible to dislocation.
• A shoulder subluxation is often the result of trauma, injury, or a stroke that weakens the arm muscles.
• In this article, we discuss the symptoms and treatments of a shoulder subluxation. We also describe the recovery process and exercises that can help.

Symptoms:-

• Share on PinterestShoulder sublaxation may cause joint stiffness and pain.
• A subluxation can be more difficult to identify than a complete dislocation. However, in some cases, the partially dislocated humerus is visible under the skin.
• A person may be able to feel the ball of the humerus moving in and out of the shoulder socket, which is usually uncomfortable and can be painful.
• Symptoms of a shoulder subluxation can include:

1. a visibly deformed or out-of-place shoulder
2. pain
3. swelling
4. numbness or tingling, also called paresthesia, along the arm
5. trouble moving the joint
6. Also, a person may also notice a clicking or catching sensation in the shoulder while performing daily activities, especially those that involve reaching overhead.

Causes:-

• Because the shoulder moves in several directions, it can dislocate forward, backward, or downward. This is also true for subluxations.
• When a dislocation is partial, the shoulder capsule can be stretched or torn, which may complicate the dislocation.
• Typically, only a forceful blow or fall can cause the humerus to pop out of place. Extreme rotation can also pull the arm from its socket.
• Once a shoulder is dislocated, the joint can become unstable and prone to future dislocations or subluxations.
• A shoulder subluxation is often caused by:
• Trauma. Subluxation can result from accidents or injuries that damage the shoulder’s joint or other structures that provide stability. Common examples include falls and motor vehicle accidents.
• A sports injury. Contact sports, including hockey and football, often cause shoulder subluxations, as do sports that involve falling, such as skiing and gymnastics.
• A stroke. Strokes often cause muscle weakness, which can lead to destabilization of the shoulder joint, followed by a subluxation. One review found that 80 percent of participants who had experienced a stroke also had a shoulder subluxation.
• Younger men and other highly physically active groups have the greatest risk of a subluxation.
• Treatment aims to reposition the humerus back into the socket and ensure that it stays in place.
• A doctor can diagnose a shoulder subluxation using an ultrasound. A correct diagnosis is key in determining the best course of treatment.
• Treatment can include the following:
• Closed reduction. This involves a doctor attempting to gently maneuver the bone back into position. When this is achieved, severe pain should improve almost immediately.
• Surgery. This may be recommended when dislocations recur. It may also be the preferred treatment when nerves, blood vessels, or ligaments in the shoulder have been damaged.
• Shoulder brace. A person may need to wear a splint, brace, or sling for a few days or weeks to prevent the shoulder from moving. The length of time will depend on the extent of the dislocation.
• Medication. This may involve a muscle relaxant and an anti-inflammatory agent, such as ibuprofen, for pain and swelling.
• Rehabilitation. Following e spent in a sling, a doctor may recommend a rehabilitation program. The goal is to restore the range of motion, strength, and stability of the shoulder joint.

Exercises:-

• The strengthening exercises below may help to increase the stability of the shoulder joint. However, a physical therapist can prescribe a home exercise regimen tailored to each person’s needs.
• The following exercises may help to increase shoulder stability:
• Shoulder flexors. Stand facing a wall with the arms hanging loose. Raise the forearm and bend the elbows at a 90-degree angle. Make a fist with the palm facing the floor, and gently try to push the fist into the wall.
• Shoulder extensors. Stand with the back to a wall and the arms hanging loose. Raise the forearms with the elbows bent at a 90-degree angle. Attempt to press the back of the elbows into the wall.
• Shoulder abductors. Stand with the injured side against a wall. Raise the arm, with the elbow bent, and attempt to move the entire arm sideways, into the wall.
• Speak with a physical therapist or doctor before attempting any exercises at home. Appropriate exercises vary, depending on the injury. Certain exercises can make some people’s symptoms worse.
• Beyond exercises, a physical therapist may recommend the following:

1. therapeutic massage
2. ice
3. avoiding certain movements or activities
4. joint mobilization