Shoulder dislocation

What is a shoulder dislocation?

The shoulder joint is a ball and socket joint. The ball, at the top of the humerus (upper arm), fits into a shallow socket called the glenoid which is part of the scapula (shoulder blade). This joint is very mobile.

The ball is held into the socket by tissue that fits over the ball like a sock. This is reinforced by ligaments and muscles. When the ball comes out of its socket it is known as a dislocation.

Anterior dislocation is by far the most common type of shoulder dislocation. This can damage the capsule (the soft tissue envelope that encircles the joint), ligament, muscles or bone of the shoulder joint.

Once the shoulder has been put back in place, or relocated, X-rays will be performed to check the position and look for any further damage, such as fractures.

Treatment

• You must wear a sling. The length of time you are in the sling will be determined by your treating doctor or physiotherapist.
• Unless you have been told your sling is for comfort alone, try to only remove the sling to perform elbow exercises or to attend to personal hygiene. When removing the sling it is important to keep your upper arm resting by your side. Do not lift your arm to clean under your armpit, you should lean forward and let your arm hang.
• Ice your shoulder for the first 48-72 hours. Ice is helpful for pain and swelling. Use ice packs for no longer than 20 minutes, every 1-2 hours while awake. Make sure you have a damp cloth layer, such as a towel, between the ice and your skin.
• Take pain medication as instructed by your emergency department doctor and continue to speak with your local doctor or pharmacist about maintaining your pain relief.
• Exercises for your elbow and wrist are important to prevent any complications in these joints.

Exercises

Do not commence exercises immediately as a re-dislocation may occur. Once it is comfortable to move during washing, and for your arm to hang by your side in the shower, gradually start gentle exercises. Avoid movements that involve moving your arm up and away from your body, until advised to start these by your doctor.

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What to expect

• Once you have anteriorly dislocated your shoulder there is an increased chance that you will dislocate your shoulder again.
• The younger you are, the more likely you are to dislocate your shoulder again.

Seeking help

In a medical emergency call an ambulance – dial triple zero (000). If you have any concerns, see your local doctor or healthcare professional. If this is not possible return to the emergency department or urgent care centre.

For more information

Ask your local doctor or healthcare professional. You can also call healthdirect 24 hours a day on 1800 022 222 or visit healthdirect.gov.au.