About Dislocated Shoulder
A dislocated shoulder happens when the humerus (arm bone) separates from the scapula (shoulder blade) at the glenohumeral joint (main shoulder joint). Since the shoulder has the greatest range of motion of any joint in the body, it is more susceptible to dislocation. Most shoulder dislocations are anterior or forward dislocations. A partial dislocation is known as a shoulder subluxation.
Causes of Dislocated Shoulder
The shoulder is most frequently dislocated by a strong force or extreme rotation of the shoulder. Possible causes of a shoulder injury include a hard hit during contact sports, a motor vehicle accident, or a fall.
 
Signs & Symptoms of Dislocated Shoulder
Symptoms of a dislocated shoulder include:
- Inability to move the shoulder
- Intense Pain
- Arm numbness or weakness
- A visibly deformed or out of place shoulder
- Swelling

Diagnosis of Dislocated Shoulder
A thorough physical exam is important to diagnose a dislocated shoulder as well as an X-ray to show the dislocation and possible broken bones. An MRI may be requested to help the doctor assess soft-tissue structures in the joint.
 
Treatment for Dislocated Shoulder
Nonsurgical Treatment
A dislocated shoulder may be placed back into position by a physician through a closed reduction in the exam room. If the shoulder joint is weak due to a recurring dislocation, surgical intervention may be necessary.
 
Surgical Treatment
A shoulder that dislocates frequently may be suffering from shoulder instability. To learn more about shoulder instability, click here.  Shoulder dislocation can be surgically treated by a Bankart repair. To learn more about Bankart repair, click here.

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