Dislocated Shoulder
What is Dislocated Shoulder ?
A dislocated shoulder is an injury in which the upper arm bone pops out of the cup-shaped socket that’s part of the shoulder blade. The shoulder is the body’s most flexible joint, which makes it more likely to dislocate.
If you suspect a dislocated shoulder, seek prompt medical attention. Most people regain full use of their shoulder within a few weeks. However, once a shoulder dislocates, the joint might be prone to repeat dislocations.
Symptoms
- Extreme pain
- Weakness
- Inability to move your arm
- Shoulder being visibly out of place
- Swelling
- Bruising or discoloration
- Muscle spasms
- Numbness
- Tingling or weakness in your arm
- Popping sensation
Cause
The shoulder joint is the most frequently dislocated joint of the body. Because it moves in several directions, the shoulder can dislocate forward, backward, or downward. It might dislocate completely or partially. Most dislocations occur at the front of the shoulder. The ligaments — tissue that joins the bones — of the shoulder can be stretched or torn, often making the dislocation worse. It takes a strong force, such as a sudden blow to the shoulder, to pull the bones out of place. Extreme twisting of the shoulder joint can pop the ball of the upper arm bone out of the shoulder socket. In a partial dislocation, the upper arm bone is partially in and partially out of the shoulder socket.
Risk Factors
Anyone can dislocate a shoulder. However, dislocated shoulders occur most often in people in their teens and 20s, particularly athletes involved in contact sports.
When to see a Doctor
Get medical help right away for a shoulder that appears dislocated. While waiting for medical attention, don’t move the joint. Splint or sling the shoulder joint in the position it’s in. Don’t try to move the shoulder or force it back into place. This can damage the shoulder joint and its surrounding muscles, ligaments, nerves, or blood vessels. Ice the injured joint. Apply ice to the shoulder to help reduce pain and swelling.