What is a Shoulder Dislocation?
A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). The shoulder is the most commonly dislocated joint in the body due to its wide range of movement and shallow socket. Dr Shahrukh Khan at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi provides expert shoulder dislocation management.
Types
- Anterior Dislocation (95%): Arm forced backward or outward
- Posterior Dislocation (2–4%): Usually from seizures or electric shocks
- Inferior Dislocation: Rare, arm forced downward
Causes
- Sports injuries (football, rugby, contact sports)
- Falls on outstretched arm
- Direct blow to the shoulder
- Extreme rotation of the arm
Symptoms
- Visible deformity – shoulder appears square rather than round
- Severe pain and inability to move the arm
- Muscle spasm around the shoulder
- Numbness/tingling down the arm (axillary nerve)
- Swelling and bruising
First Aid for Shoulder Dislocation
- Immobilise the shoulder in comfortable position
- Apply ice to reduce swelling
- Do NOT attempt to relocate the shoulder yourself
- Seek immediate medical attention
Treatment
Closed Reduction
Gentle manipulation under sedation/analgesia to relocate the shoulder. Success rate >95% for first-time dislocations. Confirmed with X-ray post-reduction.
Post-Reduction Management
- Arm sling for 2–4 weeks
- Physiotherapy to restore strength and prevent recurrence
Surgical Treatment
Indicated for recurrent dislocations or associated Bankart lesion (torn labrum). Arthroscopic Bankart repair restores stability with minimal recovery time.
Expert shoulder dislocation treatment at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
