The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, with a wide range of motion that enables you to move it in all types of directions.
Your shoulder is made up of the shoulder blade, collar bone, and upper arm bone. The top of the upper arm bone fits into your shoulder blade’s socket and may slip out or separate fully due to a number of reasons. This condition is called a dislocated shoulder, and it is a common injury.
If you suspect that you dislocated your shoulder, have it evaluated by an orthopedic specialist to ensure that it heals properly. In a complete separation, the pain will be so severe that you will have no other recourse but to head to the hospital.
A great force is the most common cause of a shoulder dislocation. Many things can cause such an injury, including:
Sports Injury
A dislocated shoulder is one of the most common sports injuries. It usually happens when you rotate your shoulder with extreme force or you have overextended your arm swing beyond the normal range of motion, such as with tennis or baseball. Another common reason is attempting to tackle a football or steal a basketball.
Falls
Falling is one of the most common causes of shoulder dislocation, whether it’s through playing sports, exercising, or when doing something at home or work. People often attempt to break a fall by landing on the upper body, which includes the shoulders and arms. This can increase the risk of a shoulder injury, such as a dislocation. Accidental falls from painting, gardening, or doing home improvement tasks can common causes of shoulder dislocations among people who aren’t physically active.
Vehicular Accident
Being in a vehicular accident, whether it’s involving a car or bike, can also result in a shoulder dislocation. The impact of a crash (causing a hard blow to your shoulder) or falling sideways on the ground can cause the shoulder to separate.
Seizures and Convulsions
Patients with epilepsy can dislocate their shoulders during a seizure. Convulsive patients are also prone to shoulder injuries, which means muscle contractions pull the bones out of place.
Treatment
Acute or severe shoulder separation treatment will depend on the severity of the dislocation. You may need to use a sling during recovery for the purpose of immobilization. Without proper shoulder separation treatment, you could suffer long-term consequences from shoulder bones not healing properly.
Separated or Dislocated Shoulder Treatment in San Antonio, Texas
At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, our orthopedic specialists will take a look at your injury or condition and make recommendations according to the severity of your shoulder problem. We take a compassionate and friendly approach and do our best to make you feel comfortable and strive to provide you with a great experience in our clinic.
To schedule a consultation, call Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine at (210) 692-7400 or send an appointment request now. We look forward to finding you relief.
