Shoulder Dislocation
What Is a Shoulder Dislocation?
A shoulder dislocation occurs when the humeral head (ball) is forced out of the glenoid (socket) of the shoulder joint. The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body — and also the most frequently dislocated. This condition is categorized as either:
Anterior dislocation (most common, ~95%): humeral head dislocates forward
Posterior dislocation: humeral head dislocates backward
Inferior or multidirectional dislocation: less common, usually involves ligament laxity
A dislocation can occur once (acute) or recur over time (chronic instability), especially in young athletes.
Causes and Risk Factors
Traumatic events such as falls, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents
Forceful overhead or twisting arm movements
Contact sports (e.g., football, hockey, wrestling)
Previous dislocations that weaken joint stability
Hyperlaxity or connective tissue disorders (e.g., Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome)
Muscle imbalances or poor scapular mechanics
Symptoms
Sudden, severe shoulder pain at the time of dislocation
Visible shoulder deformity (“flattened” deltoid contour)
Inability to move the shoulder
Swelling and bruising
Numbness or tingling (if nerves are affected)
Sensation of shoulder “slipping out” with movement (chronic instability)
Diagnosis
Physical exam and assessment of shoulder position and deformity
X-rays to confirm dislocation direction and rule out fractures
MRI or MR arthrogram to evaluate for labral tears or soft tissue damage
Neurological exam to assess for nerve involvement
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment (Initial Dislocation)
Closed reduction: repositioning the shoulder by a trained provider
Immobilization in a sling for a few weeks
NSAIDs for pain and inflammation
Physical therapy to restore strength and prevent recurrence
Surgical Treatment
Recommended for patients with:
Repeated dislocations
Associated labral or bone injuries
High-demand athletes with instability
Arthroscopic labral repair (Bankart repair) is common for anterior instability
Latarjet procedure may be used if there is significant bone loss
Capsular shift or plication for patients with generalized ligament laxity
Recovery Outlook
Initial dislocations treated non-surgically may require 3–6 weeks of rehab
Surgical recovery involves a sling for 4–6 weeks, with gradual return to full activity over 4 to 6 months
With proper treatment, long-term shoulder function is usually excellent
Early surgical intervention may reduce recurrence risk, especially in young athletes
Why Kerlan Jobe Institute?
At Kerlan Jobe Institute, our fellowship-trained shoulder specialists are leaders in arthroscopic shoulder stabilization and individualized care. Whether managing a first-time dislocation or a complex recurrent case, we provide expert diagnosis, tailored rehabilitation, and advanced surgical techniques to restore full function and long-term joint stability.