Shoulder Dislocation / Subluxation

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the cup-shaped socket (glenoid) that is part of your shoulder blade. Because the shoulder is the body's most mobile joint, it is also the most commonly dislocated one.

Symptoms: How it Feels

If you have dislocated your shoulder, the symptoms are usually immediate and intense. You may notice:

• Visible Deformity: The shoulder may look squared off rather than rounded, or a bump may appear under the skin at the front or back.

• Intense Pain: Severe pain that often radiates down the arm.

• Inability to Move: You will likely be unable to move the arm from its current position.

• Swelling and Bruising: Rapid inflammation around the joint.

• Numbness or Tingling: A "pins and needles" sensation in the arm or hand if nerves are compressed.

While a dislocation is a complete separation of the joint surfaces, a subluxation is a partial or temporary "slip" where the bone comes out and then slides back into place on its own.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis will start with a physical exam to check for tenderness, deformity, or instability. To confirm the diagnosis and check for complications, images can include:

1. X-rays: The primary tool used to confirm the dislocation and identify any associated bone fractures.

2. MRI or CT Scan: These may be ordered later to assess damage to the labrum (cartilage) or ligaments, which helps determine if surgery is necessary to prevent future dislocations.

Treatment

Do not attempt to pop the shoulder back in yourself. This can damage nerves, blood vessels, and the joint capsule.

• Reduction: A doctor will perform a "closed reduction," which involves gentle maneuvers to guide the arm bone back into the socket. Pain medication or sedation is usually provided during this process.

• Immobilization: You may need a sling short term to keep the shoulder stable while the tissues begin to heal.

• Physical Therapy: Once the sling is removed, a targeted exercise program is crucial to restore range of motion and strengthen the muscles that stabilize the joint.

• Surgery: If you have recurring dislocations or severe ligament damage, a surgeon may need to tighten the joint capsule or repair the labrum.