Dislocation

What is a Cervical Shoulder dislocation?

1. Definition:
- A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone) is forced out of its normal position in the shoulder socket (glenoid). This displacement can disrupt the normal alignment of the shoulder joint.

2. Mechanism of Injury:
- Shoulder dislocations commonly result from trauma or sudden impact, such as a fall onto an outstretched arm or a direct blow to the shoulder. Activities involving high-impact sports or accidents are frequent causes. The dislocation can be anterior (forward) or posterior (backward), with anterior dislocations being the most common.

3. Complications:
- Recurrent Dislocations: The shoulder may be susceptible to future dislocations if not properly managed.
- Nerve Damage: Injury to surrounding nerves can occur, potentially leading to numbness or weakness.
- Rotator Cuff Injury: The rotator cuff muscles or tendons may be damaged.

- Fractures: There is a risk of fractures to the shoulder bones or surrounding structures.

Symptoms

- Severe Pain: Intense, immediate pain in the shoulder area.
- Visible Deformity: The shoulder may appear visibly out of place or misshapen.
- Limited Mobility: Difficulty or inability to move the shoulder or arm.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and possible bruising around the shoulder joint.
- Numbness or Tingling: Possible numbness or tingling in the arm or hand if nerves are affected.

Treatment

1. Immediate Care:
- Immobilisation: Use a sling or brace to keep the shoulder stable and prevent further injury.
- Cold Therapy: Apply ice packs to reduce pain and swelling.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications to manage pain.

2. Reduction:
- Manual Reduction: A healthcare professional performs a procedure to gently reposition the humerus back into the shoulder socket. This is usually done under sedation or local anesthesia.

3. Rehabilitation:
- Rehabilitation Exercises: Tailored exercises to restore strength, stability, and range of motion in the shoulder. These may include stretching and strengthening exercises.
- Resistance Band Exercises: To address weaknesses and improve shoulder stability.
- Physical Therapy: Ongoing therapy sessions to support recovery, improve function, and prevent future dislocations.