A focus on… Shoulder Dislocations

Shoulder Dislocation

The shoulder is an amazing joint with incredible flexibility. It doesn’t attach directly to the spine, like the hip joint; instead, it is held to the body through a complicated system of musculature and indirectly by the collarbone (clavicle) to the front of the rib cage. Many other joints in the body are extremely stable, thanks to the structure of the bones and ligaments surrounding them. However, the shoulder has so much movement that some stability is sacrificed. It is for this reason that shoulder dislocations are a relatively common occurrence.

What is a dislocation and how does it happen?

As the name suggests, a dislocated shoulder is where the head of the upper arm is moved out of its normal anatomical position to sit outside of the shoulder socket joint. Some people have flexible joints, making them prone to dislocations, while traumatic injuries cause others. The shoulder can dislocate in various directions, the most common being anterior, which can happen when the arm is raised and forced backward in a ‘stop sign’ position.

What to do if this happensShoulder Dislocation

The initial dislocation is typically the most severe. If the shoulder doesn’t relocate spontaneously, a professional is required to help. This professional should assess the type of dislocation and often requires an X-ray before relocation. It’s essential to seek professional help because relocating the shoulder might cause a small fracture.

How can physiotherapy help?

Post-dislocation, physiotherapists can advise on the optimal shoulder healing process. It’s vital to protect the shoulder for a while to allow any damaged structures to recover. Later on, a muscle-strengthening and stabilization program can commence to enhance shoulder stability and mitigate the risk of future dislocations.

Note: This article’s content is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult a medical expert regarding your specific condition.

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