Shoulder instability is a condition characterized by a loose shoulder that slides around too much. This means the shoulder can slip out of its socket. In this post, we will have a detailed look at shoulder instability along with its treatment. 

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Shoulder Instability – An Overview

The shoulder joint is a type of ball and socket joint that allows smooth movement of our arm. Here, the femoral head is the ball and the glenoid cavity in the shoulder blade is the socket. An unstable shoulder is characterized by a situation where the femoral head leaves its socket by moving out. 

There could be several reasons for shoulder instability and the severity of the condition will depend on the cause. Here are some of the common causes of shoulder instability:

• Force exerted on the shoulder joint after falling on an outstretched hand can move the femoral head out of its place
• Traumatic injuries like automobile accidents
• Repetitive overhead movements like the ones made by sportspeople who play baseball, cricket, and basketball
• Contact sports injuries

What Are the Types of Shoulder Instability?

A shoulder can become unstable because of various reasons:

Shoulder Subluxation

A subluxation is a condition in which the humeral head partially moves out of its socket. Such a situation occurs because of a minor injury like a collision with someone while walking or falling from the bed.

Complete Shoulder Dislocation

Severe trauma is often the cause of complete shoulder dislocation. It includes the movement of the humeral head (ball) completely out of its socket. Timely assessment by an experienced orthopedic expert is important in such situations to avoid complications. 

Labrum Tear

Labrum is a cartilage that keeps the humeral head in its true anatomy. In the case of a labrum tear, the humeral head becomes loose and it can displace without any significant cause. Surgery may be required for the treatment of this condition. 

What is a Diagnosis for an Unstable Shoulder?

The diagnosis of an unstable shoulder requires a physical examination followed by imaging tests. During the physical examination, the orthopedic specialist will look for visible signs which may include swelling, deformity, bruising, and the affected range of motion. After this, the orthopedic specialist will order certain tests including:

• X-ray
• CT scan
• Arthro x-ray/Arthro CT scan
• Arthroscopy

How is an Unstable Shoulder Treated?

The treatment of an unstable shoulder depends on the severity of the condition. In non-severe cases, the orthopedic specialist will prefer non-surgical treatments which may include closed reduction, exercises to strengthen muscles around the shoulder joint, and physical therapy. The orthopedic specialist will also prescribe pain-relievers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to curb inflammation. 

Surgery for treating shoulder instability is required when the instability is caused by severe damage in the labrum. Surgery is performed to repair the torn labrum and stabilize the joint. Physical therapy is recommended to bring back the range of motion. 

Siora Surgicals Pvt. Ltd. is a renowned orthopedic implant manufacturer in India with over 3 decades in the industry. The company manufactures a huge range of CE-certified orthopedic implants and instruments including shoulder arthroscopy implants. Siora is also an exhibitor at Florida International Medical Expo.