1. It Happens a Lot
A shoulder dislocation is the most common dislocation of any joint. This is because it is the most mobile joint in the body. An estimated 1.7 percent of the worldwide population will experience a shoulder dislocation during their lifetime. The most susceptible population is the elderly, older than 70. This is because of their increased propensity to fall.
2. Foward, Ouch!
There are anterior shoulder dislocations, posterior shoulder dislocations and inferior shoulder dislocations. The most common dislocation is an anterior, or forward, shoulder dislocation. Between 95% and 98% of dislocations are anterior. Following an anterior dislocation, an arm will be slightly away from the body and turned outwards. The top of the arm, or the head of the humerus, is forward and under the clavicle.
3. Backwards is not as Common
The second most common type of dislocation is a posterior shoulder. After a posterior dislocation, the arm will be close to the body and turned slightly inwards. Since the shoulder is not in its socket, it will have a slightly boxy look. It is possible to feel the top of the humerus in the area at the back of the shoulder. It will feel like a fullness underneath the point of the shoulder. An inferior shoulder dislocation is the most uncommon form of dislocation. It is usually associated with severe, high velocity trauma.
4. Emergency Shoulder Room
Shoulder dislocations should go to an emergency facility. They are exceedingly painful. Depending upon the nature of the injury, damage may occur to the nerve and blood supply. In addition, the longer the shoulder remains out of its socket, the more swelling occurs, complicating its repair. It is therefore important to ice the shoulder immediately following the injury. There are a number of ways of manipulating the shoulder back into place. Most orthopedic surgeons prefer the Kocher maneuver.
5. Recovery is on Your Shoulders
Following a dislocation, resting the shoulder is crucial. Then, a gradually increasing range of motion should begin. By two weeks post injury, some weight training can begin. The goal of the program is restoration of pre-injury muscle strength. Physical therapists help this process significantly. Shoulder dislocation surgery may be necessary. These procedures tighten muscular attachments, in turn tightening the joint.
