- Shoulder Dislocation
What is Shoulder Dislocation and Shoulder Subluxation?
Shoulder dislocation is when the humerus (arm bone) dislocate out of the socket of scapula (shoulder blade). It can dislocate forward, backwards, downwards or combined. The most common is anterior shoulder dislocation, where humerus comes forward.
Dislocation is usually very painful for the first time, and numbness of the whole arm to hands.
Shoulder subluxation is when the humerus comes out partially from joint, and goes back in, usually on its own, or pushes back. Subluxation is also painful and arm feels weak and numb.
What causes Shoulder Dislocation and Shoulder Subluxation?
- contact sports, like martial arts, rugby, soccer
- fall with outstretched arm
- accident or trauma
- previous shoulder pain, shoulder instability
- torn ligaments or tendon
Diagnosis and Treatment for Shoulder Dislocation
Shoulder dislocation must seek medical treatment immediately to prevent further damage. Your doctor may relocate back humerus into the socket. This is usually followed by Xray to ensure shoulder joint is back in place and no other parts of bone fracture.
Symptoms of Shoulder Dislocation
- sudden onset sharp severe shoulder pain
- lost of sensation/feeling around shoulder to arm
- swelling
- muscle weakness
How Physiotherapy can Treat Shoulder Dislocation?
People who dislocated shoulder must go through physiotherapy to prevent shoulder dislocating again and other long term complications.
- Pain Relief and Tissue Repair Treatment: Ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat therapy
- Active and Passive movement to keep full range of shoulder movement
- Progressive Exercises to strengthen the muscles around shoulder to increase shoulder joint stability and prevent re-injury
- Advice about how to use your arm safely with everyday activities
- Functional and sports specific exercises
Your physiotherapist at Physioclinic will help you return to the activities you enjoy as soon as possible.
