Shoulder Dislocation / Labral Tear Injuries

Shoulder Dislocation / Labral Tear

The shoulder joint is a mobile joint that can turn in many directions. Unfortunately, this advantage makes the shoulder easy to dislocate. A dislocated shoulder injury is when your upper arm bone pops out of the socket that is part of your shoulder blade. The shoulder joint can dislocate in three ways: forward, backward or downward. A common shoulder dislocation is when the shoulder slips forward (anterior instability). This means the upper arm bone moved forward and down out of its joint, which can happen with a throwing position. If you suspect a dislocated shoulder injury, you should seek medical attention. Most people regain full shoulder function within a few weeks.

If shoulder dislocation becomes a chronic condition, a brace and therapy may be used for treatment. If therapy and bracing fail, surgery may be needed to repair or tighten the torn or stretched ligaments that help hold the joint in place. This is particularly common in high school and college athletes.

Shoulder dislocation signs and symptoms

• Weakness
• Swelling
• Numbness
• Bruising
• A sense of instability in the shoulder