Shoulder Dislocation: Causes, Treatment Options, and How to Prevent Future Injuries 

What is a Shoulder Dislocation? 

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, which makes it susceptible to dislocation. This can result from trauma, falls, or sports-related accidents. If not treated properly, a shoulder dislocation and be painful and limiting. 

What are the Common Causes of Shoulder Dislocation? 

Here are the most common causes of shoulder dislocation: 

• Trauma or impact: A direct blow to the shoulder during contact sports like football or a car accident can force the joint out of place. 

• Falls: Falling onto an outstretched hand or onto the shoulder itself can dislocate the joint. 

• Overuse injuries: Repeated stress on the shoulder from throwing sports (like baseball) or heavy lifting can gradually weaken the shoulder, increasing the risk of dislocation. 

• Previous dislocations: Once a shoulder has been dislocated, it becomes more vulnerable to future dislocations. 

Treatment Options for Shoulder Dislocation 

The treatment for a dislocated shoulder will depend on the severity of the injury and whether it’s a first-time or recurrent dislocation: 

• Reduction (putting the joint back in place): A medical professional will gently manipulate the shoulder to guide the bone back into the socket. 

• Immobilization: After reduction, the shoulder may need to be immobilized in a sling for a few weeks to allow the tissues to heal. 

• Physical therapy: Once the shoulder begins to heal, physical therapy will help restore strength, range of motion, and stability. 

• Surgery: In cases of repeated dislocations or when soft tissue damage (such as a torn ligament) occurs, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage and stabilize the joint. 

Prevention Tips for Shoulder Dislocation 

Although not all shoulder dislocations can be prevented, the following steps can reduce your risk: 

• Strengthen shoulder muscles: Regular exercises that target the muscles surrounding the shoulder can help improve joint stability. 

• Avoid risky movements: Be cautious during activities that require overhead motions or increase the likelihood of falls, like skiing or climbing. 

• Wear protective gear: If you’re involved in contact sports, using appropriate protective equipment can minimize the risk of injury. 

• Warm up properly: Stretching and warming up your shoulders before any physical activity can help prevent injuries. 

When Should You See a Specialist? 

If your shoulder dislocation does not improve with conservative treatments or if it repeatedly dislocates, it’s important to consult an orthopedic specialist. They can assess your injury, recommend appropriate treatments, and guide you through rehabilitation to reduce the risk of future dislocations. 

Shoulder dislocations can be painful and limit your mobility, but with the right treatment, you can restore function and prevent further injury. By understanding the causes, following a recovery plan, and strengthening your shoulder, you can get back to your daily activities with confidence. 

Interested in learning more? Contact our team at ROC today.