Dislocated Shoulder

What is a Dislocated Shoulder?

The shoulder is the body’s most mobile joint. When the ball-shaped head of the upper arm bone (humerus) is forced out of its socket, this is called a dislocated shoulder. This happens often in sports and traffic accidents. Torn tissue and the stretching of muscles that accompany this injury can cause much pain. As the shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body, it is more likely to dislocate. 

Anyone can dislocate their shoulder. However, it is more common in teens and those in their 20s, as well as athletes. Especially those involed in contact sports. 

What are the symptoms of a Dislocated Shoulder?

Shoulder dislocation can cause numbness, weakness or tingling near the injury, such as from the neck or down the arm. Other symptoms of a dislocated shoulder include:

• Severe pain, possibly extending down the arm and towards the neck
• Inability in moving the shoulder joint
• Swelling or bruising
• A visibly out of place shoulder
• Shoulder muscle spasms
• Damaged tendons, ligaments, or nerve 

It is important before receiving treatment not to move or attempt to force the shoulder back into place. Blood vessels, ligaments, nerves, muscles, and the shoulder joint are liable to become damaged.

What to do while waiting for medical attention?

Do seek medical attention as soon as possible for a shoulder that appears dislocated. While waiting for medical attention, you can do the following:

• Do not move the joint: Try to splint or sling the shoulder joint and avoid moving the shoulder or forcing the joint back in. This could damage the shoulder joint and its surrounding muscles, blood vessels and nerves.
• Ice the injured joint: Apply ice wrapped in cloth to the shoulder to reduce pain and swelling.

How is a Dislocated Shoulder diagnosed?

An X-ray can be involved. A doctor’s examination can check on the shoulder’s mobility, pain, and numbness and also the occurrence of the dislocation.