Shoulder Dislocation

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the ball of the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket. It is the most commonly dislocated major joint in the body and is frequently seen in contact sports.

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Typical Recovery Time

Initial recovery 2-4 weeks. Return to sport 3-6 months

Symptoms

•Visibly out of place or deformed shoulder
•Intense shoulder pain
•Inability to move the shoulder joint
•Swelling and bruising
•Numbness or tingling down the arm

Common Causes

•Direct blow to the shoulder
•Fall on an outstretched arm
•Forceful rotation of the arm
•Contact sport collision
•Previous shoulder dislocation

Treatment Options

1Immediate medical attention to relocate the joint

2Sling immobilization for 2-4 weeks

3Ice and pain management

4Physical therapy to restore strength and stability

5Surgery for recurrent dislocations

When to See a Doctor

Go to the emergency room immediately if you suspect a shoulder dislocation — do not try to relocate it yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a shoulder dislocation?

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the ball of the shoulder comes out of the socket. It is a common injury, especially in athletes. This can cause pain, instability, and difficulty moving the arm.

What causes a shoulder dislocation?

It is usually caused by trauma such as a fall or direct impact. Contact sports and high-risk activities increase the likelihood. Once it happens, the risk of recurrence can increase.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include severe shoulder pain, visible deformity, and inability to move the arm. The shoulder may appear out of place. Swelling and muscle spasms are common.

How is it treated?

Treatment involves repositioning the shoulder back into place, followed by rest and rehabilitation. Physical therapy helps restore strength and stability. Surgery may be needed for recurrent dislocations.

When can I return to sports?

Return to sports depends on stability and strength after recovery. Non-contact sports may resume sooner than contact sports. A gradual return is important to reduce reinjury risk.