A dislocated shoulder is an injury that results from the failure of the shoulder joint to remain in its proper position. Specifically, it involves the separation of the humerus (upper arm bone) from the scapula (the bone connecting the humerus to the collar bone). If the joint slides partially out of place, this is called shoulder subluxation. If it slides completely out of place, shoulder dislocation has taken place.
This type of injury can lead to a long term condition known as shoulder instability in which the shoulder joint is unable to remain permanently in its proper position. This is because shoulder dislocation can damage the ligaments of the shoulder and thus adversely affect their ability to hold the joint in place. To minimize the risk of this happening, anyone who suspects that they have suffered a dislocated shoulder should seek prompt medical attention.
The shoulder joint tends to be dislocated more frequently than any other joint of the body. The most frequent cause of dislocation is usually a powerful blow to the joint that pushes the bones of the shoulder out of place. Extreme rotation of the joint is another frequent cause of dislocation as it can result in the ball of the humerus (upper arm bone ) partially or completely popping out of the shoulder socket.
The situations most commonly giving rise to a dislocated shoulder include:
Symptoms of a dislocated shoulder or shoulder subluxation may include the following:
Someone with a dislocated shoulder may also experience numbness, weakness or tingling along the neck or down the arm. Muscle spasms in the shoulder may also occur and may increase the intensity of the pain the individual is already experiencing.
If the shoulder dislocation does not involve nerve or tissue damage, the injury will likely improve by itself over the course of a few weeks. However, this will leave the patient at a higher risk of another dislocation. He or she also needs to be careful not to try resuming regular activities too soon, as this too can lead to another dislocation. Consequently, the first step after experiencing a dislocated shoulder (and having it confirmed by an official diagnosis) is beginning a course of treatment under the care of a medical professional.
After examining the injury, a doctor can try one or more of the following courses of treatment:
The patient can usually supplement the above treatments with the following:
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The Mueller Adjustable Arm Sling comes equipped with an adjustable and padded shoulder strap for maximum comfort and offers arm support to restrict movement and promote rapid healing.
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The LP Arm Sling supports your injured arm and allows its weight to be borne by the back and shoulder. With an adjustable hook and loop closure for proper height adjustment and a special netting material to prevent heat build up, this sling has the features you need to wear it all day long with maximum support and minimum discomfort.
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The LP Shoulder Supports promotes rapid healing of your dislocated or otherwise damaged shoulder and helps you return gradually to a full range of motion.
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The Sully Shoulder Brace provides breathability and shoulder support to treat a wide variety of shoulder injuries including shoulder strains, shoulder separation and rotator cuff deceleration. You can also use it in the post operative stages to assist recovery from shoulder surgery. The brace fits both right and left shoulders. It includes a vest, pad and adhesive backed hock material that ensures reliable attachment in the correct therapeutic position. The pad can also be purchased separately for use with other shoulder supports. Available in sizes Large, Medium and Small.