Shoulder Dislocation
Anterior shoulder dislocation is a common injury that occurs when the ball of the humerus bone is dislocated from the glenoid fossa of the scapula in the shoulder joint. This is the most common type of shoulder dislocation, accounting for about 95% of all dislocations. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of anterior shoulder dislocation.
Anterior shoulder dislocation can occur due to various reasons. The most common cause is a traumatic injury, such as a fall or a blow to the shoulder. Certain medical conditions involving hypermobility such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Marfan syndrome can also increase the risk of anterior shoulder dislocation due to increased joint laxity.
The most common symptom of anterior shoulder dislocation is severe pain in the shoulder joint, which can radiate down the arm. The shoulder may also feel weak and unstable, and there may be a visible deformity in the shoulder joint. In some cases, the person may experience numbness or tingling in the arm, which is a sign of axillary nerve damage.
How to diagnose it?
Diagnosis of anterior shoulder dislocation is usually done by a physical examination, which includes checking the range of motion of the shoulder joint, and assessing the stability of the joint. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other injuries.
Generally observation of a shoulder will give you the biggest clue to a shoulder dislocation although can be misdiagnosed for an AC joint or clavicle fracture. The x-ray below shows an acute anterior dislocation in where the shoulder has moved from its normal joint alignment.
How can Physio help?
The treatment for anterior shoulder dislocation depends on the severity of the injury. In most cases, the first line of treatment is to immobilize the shoulder joint using a sling or a brace for a short period of time. This helps to reduce the pain and prevents further damage to the joint. In most cases, gentle exercises and physical therapy may be recommended to help restore the range of motion of the shoulder joint.
Once initial period of settling symptoms a thorough active rehabiliation including rotator cuff, general shoulder strengthening into full range of motion is imperative to help prevent further dislocations. Any return to sport must only be considered once a specific conditioning program is completed.
If the dislocation is severe or recurrent, surgery may be required. The most common surgical procedure used for anterior shoulder dislocation is the arthroscopic stabilisation repair, which involves reattaching the torn ligaments and cartilage in the shoulder joint.
`
Prevention better than cure?
To prevent anterior shoulder dislocation, it is important to maintain good shoulder strength and control. Strengthening exercises for the muscles surrounding the shoulder can also help to improve the stability of the joint and reduce the risk of injury.
In conclusion, anterior shoulder dislocation is a common injury that can cause severe pain and discomfort. It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you experience any symptoms of anterior shoulder dislocation, as early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent further damage to the joint. With proper care and management, most people with anterior shoulder dislocation can recover fully and regain their normal range of motion and function.
If you need any help with your recent shoulder injury send us an email or book online below.
Patrick Lincoln
The Physio Depot