Dislocated Shoulder

Overview

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) slips out of its socket (glenoid) in the shoulder blade. This condition is common due to the shoulder joint’s wide range of motion, making it prone to instability. Prompt medical intervention is crucial to restore joint alignment and prevent complications.

Introduction

The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body, allowing various movements such as lifting, rotating, and reaching. However, this flexibility comes at the cost of stability. In India, sports injuries, road accidents, and physical labour are leading contributors to shoulder dislocations. While anyone can experience this injury, it is more prevalent among young adults and athletes engaged in contact sports like kabaddi and cricket.

Symptoms

The signs of a dislocated shoulder are often immediate and unmistakable. Common symptoms include:

– Severe pain: Intense discomfort, especially when attempting to move the arm.
– Visible deformity: The shoulder may appear visibly out of place or misaligned.
– Swelling and bruising: The area around the shoulder becomes swollen and discolored.
– Limited mobility: Difficulty or inability to move the arm.
– Numbness or tingling: Sensations of pins and needles in the arm or hand due to nerve involvement.

If these symptoms occur, seek medical care immediately to avoid further complications.

Causes

Shoulder dislocations can result from various factors, including:

1. Trauma: High-impact incidents like falls, vehicle accidents, or collisions during sports.
2. Sports injuries: Activities involving repetitive overhead movements or direct impact.
3. Overuse: Continuous strain on the shoulder joint, often seen in labor-intensive jobs.
4. Previous dislocations: Once dislocated, the shoulder becomes more susceptible to recurrent injuries.

Treatment

Treating a dislocated shoulder involves a multi-step approach aimed at relieving pain, restoring the joint’s position, and rehabilitating the shoulder.

1. Reduction: A doctor manipulates the shoulder joint back into its socket. This procedure, often called closed reduction, typically requires pain relief or sedation.
2. Immobilization: The shoulder may be placed in a sling or brace to restrict movement and allow healing.
3. Physical therapy: Exercises are introduced gradually to strengthen muscles and improve joint stability.
4. Surgery: In severe or recurrent dislocations, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments or tendons.

Prevention and Risk Factors

Preventing a dislocated shoulder involves proactive measures to reduce the risk of injury. Key prevention strategies include:

– Strengthening exercises: Regular shoulder and core-strengthening workouts to enhance joint stability.
– Protective gear: Using proper equipment during sports and physical activities.
– Avoiding risky behaviours: Being cautious during activities that may involve falls or direct impact.
– Warm-ups: Preparing muscles and joints with stretches before physical exertion.

Risk factors include:
– Age: Younger individuals are at a higher risk due to high activity levels.
– Activity type: Participation in contact sports or high-impact activities.
– Previous injury: History of shoulder dislocations increases susceptibility.

Insights from Sancheti Hospital

At Sancheti Hospital, our team of experienced orthopedic specialists offers state-of-the-art treatment for shoulder dislocations. We employ advanced diagnostic tools, such as X-rays and MRIs, to assess the severity of the injury accurately. Our physiotherapy and rehabilitation programs are tailored to restore shoulder strength and mobility, minimizing the risk of recurrence.

Our focus on patient-centred care ensures comprehensive support, from diagnosis to recovery. Whether it’s a first-time dislocation or a recurrent issue, Sancheti Hospital’s expertise ensures the best outcomes for every patient.

References
1. Indian Journal of Orthopaedics: Epidemiology of Shoulder Injuries in India
2. Mayo Clinic: Dislocated Shoulder Overview
3. Sancheti Hospital Case Studies on Shoulder Rehabilitation