Understanding Shoulder Dislocation
A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) is completely forced out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). It accounts for approximately 50% of all major joint dislocations.
A partial dislocation is called a shoulder subluxation, where the humeral head slips only partly out of the socket.
Common Causes
- High-impact sports: Basketball, volleyball, football, rugby, wrestling, martial arts, gymnastics.
- Traumatic falls, slipping, motorcycle, and car accidents.
- Heavy lifting accidents or industrial trauma.
- Less common causes: Seizures or electric shocks.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe shoulder pain after an injury
- A shoulder that looks visibly deformed or out of place
- Complete inability to move the arm
- Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
- Weak pulse or cold hand
- Suspected fracture
Important: Do not attempt to push the shoulder back into place yourself, as this can cause severe damage to bones, nerves, or blood vessels.
Treatment Protocols
- Immediate care: Closed reduction performed gently by trained medical professionals after proper clinical evaluation.
- Immobilization: Shoulder sling support to allow joint capsule healing.
- Pain management: Ice application and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy to rebuild stability and prevent recurrent dislocations.
Medical Educational Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for clinical education and informational purposes only. It does not replace individualized medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or orthopedic surgical consultation. If you are experiencing acute pain or severe joint instability, please contact our Davao clinic or your nearest emergency medical center immediately.