Shoulder dislocation

Shoulder dislocation is essentially the displacement of the two articulating surfaces in the shoulder area and is usually due to the application of intense force / pressure to the point.

The shoulder joint consists of the head of the humerus and the glenoid cavity of the scapula.

In the case of dislocation, the head of the humerus is displaced in one direction, usually anteriorly (anterior dislocation) or sometimes posteriorly (posterior dislocation).

In both cases, the shoulder joint, the ligaments (muscles, tendons) that hold the head in place are injured and the labral cartilage that holds the head and the glenoid cavity is usually detached (labral cartilage tear).

Shoulder dislocation

The patient feels intense pain and the arm falls forward away from the body, with a simultaneous loss of movement. The patient should immediately seek specialized medical attention. To rule out a possible coexisting fracture, an x-ray is usually required. Initial treatment includes reduction of the dislocation and immobilization of the joint for a period of time proportional to the patient’s age and whether it is the first time or not. In some cases, surgical treatment is recommended, using the arthroscopy method, where the specialized orthopedic surgeon will proceed to suture the torn labral cartilage.