Shoulder Dislocation – Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery By Dr. Kashyap Solanki, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Andheri East, Mumbai

Introduction

The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body — and because of this, it’s also the most likely to dislocate. A shoulder dislocation happens when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of its socket (glenoid) in the shoulder blade. It’s a painful injury that can happen during sports, falls, accidents, or even simple slips.

X-ray showing anterior shoulder dislocation.

How Does a Shoulder Dislocate?

The shoulder joint is like a golf ball on a tee — great for movement, but less stable than deeper joints like the hip. Dislocations usually occur due to:

• Sports injuries – Contact sports (football, kabaddi), overhead sports (volleyball, swimming)

• Falls – Landing on an outstretched arm

• Accidents – Two-wheeler or car accidents

• Sudden twisting – Forceful pulling or rotation of the arm

Types of Shoulder Dislocation

1. Anterior Dislocation – Most common (90%), arm pushed forward out of socket.

2. Posterior Dislocation – Rare, often due to seizures or electric shock.

3. Inferior Dislocation – Very rare, arm forced downward.

Signs & Symptoms

• Sudden, severe pain in the shoulder

• Visible deformity or abnormal shoulder contour

• Inability to move the arm

• Swelling and bruising

• Numbness or tingling in the arm or fingers (possible nerve involvement)

What To Do Immediately

• Do NOT try to push it back yourself – This can damage nerves and blood vessels.

• Support the arm in a comfortable position with a sling.

• Apply ice to reduce pain and swelling.

• Seek immediate medical attention — the sooner the joint is reduced, the better the outcome.

Treatment

1. Closed Reduction – A trained orthopaedic surgeon gently moves the bone back into place.

2. Immobilization – Sling for 1–3 weeks to allow healing.

3. Pain relief & anti-inflammatory medication

4. Physiotherapy – Regain strength and prevent stiffness.

5. Surgery – For recurrent dislocations or associated fractures/ligament tears (Bankart repair, Latarjet procedure).

Risk of Recurrence

Young patients (especially under 25) have a higher risk of dislocating the shoulder again. Proper rehab and, in some cases, preventive surgery are essential to avoid repeated injury.

Prevention Tips

• Strengthen shoulder and rotator cuff muscles.

• Practice safe techniques during sports.

• Avoid risky overhead lifting without proper form.

• Treat previous shoulder injuries promptly.

Final Word

A shoulder dislocation is not just a temporary injury — it can lead to long-term instability if not treated properly. With timely medical care, structured rehabilitation, and preventive measures, most people return to full activity without lasting problems.

If you’ve experienced a shoulder dislocation or recurrent shoulder instability, consult an orthopaedic specialist for a personalized treatment plan.

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About Dr. Kashyap Prabhu Solanki & Dr. Prabhu Solanki

Orthopaedic Surgeon – Andheri, Mumbai

Dr. Kashyap Solanki specializes in hip and knee replacement, robotic-assisted knee surgery, and joint preservation procedures like HTO, arthroscopy, and ligament reconstruction. He is also known for performing complex revision joint replacements and managing challenging upper and lower limb fractures. With a focus on precision and patient-centered care, Dr. Solanki helps restore mobility and improve quality of life through advanced orthopaedic solutions.

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