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:
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Anterior dislocation (most common, ~95%): humeral head dislocates forward
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Posterior dislocation: humeral head dislocates backward
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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
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Traumatic events such as falls, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents
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Forceful overhead or twisting arm movements
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Contact sports (e.g., football, hockey, wrestling)
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Previous dislocations that weaken joint stability
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Hyperlaxity or connective tissue disorders (e.g., Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome)
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Muscle imbalances or poor scapular mechanics
Symptoms
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Sudden, severe shoulder pain at the time of dislocation
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Visible shoulder deformity (“flattened” deltoid contour)
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Inability to move the shoulder
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Swelling and bruising
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Numbness or tingling (if nerves are affected)
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Sensation of shoulder “slipping out” with movement (chronic instability)
Diagnosis
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Physical exam and assessment of shoulder position and deformity
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X-rays to confirm dislocation direction and rule out fractures
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MRI or MR arthrogram to evaluate for labral tears or soft tissue damage
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Neurological exam to assess for nerve involvement
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment (Initial Dislocation)
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Closed reduction: repositioning the shoulder by a trained provider
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Immobilization in a sling for a few weeks
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NSAIDs for pain and inflammation
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Physical therapy to restore strength and prevent recurrence
Surgical Treatment
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Recommended for patients with:
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Repeated dislocations
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Associated labral or bone injuries
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High-demand athletes with instability
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Arthroscopic labral repair (Bankart repair) is common for anterior instability
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Latarjet procedure may be used if there is significant bone loss
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Capsular shift or plication for patients with generalized ligament laxity
Recovery Outlook
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Initial dislocations treated non-surgically may require 3–6 weeks of rehab
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Surgical recovery involves a sling for 4–6 weeks, with gradual return to full activity over 4 to 6 months
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With proper treatment, long-term shoulder function is usually excellent
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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.