The shoulder is a joint that connects the collarbone, shoulder blade and humerus. A dislocated shoulder occurs when the humerus pops out of the joint, according to the "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book." Common among athletes in high-impact sports and in sports where falls are common, such as skateboarding, this injury often requires surgical treatment. Most skateboarders must wait several months before returning to the sport, so it's wise to take precautions to prevent this painful injury.
Causes
Among skateboarders, the most common cause of a dislocated shoulder is a blow to the shoulder caused by a fall. Poor landings that cause you to ram up against your skateboard or a skate ramp can also cause the injury. A dislocated shoulder is the most common kind of dislocated joint because when people fall, they tend to lean on one shoulder, increasing the risks of dislocation, according to the "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book."
Symptoms
A dislocated shoulder hurts immediately after a fall or blow to the area. You may develop bruising and swelling. Sometimes the area becomes numb due to a lack of circulation. If you fall on your shoulder and the pain gets worse rather than better after several hours, consult your doctor immediately.
Treatment
A dislocated shoulder can only be diagnosed by a doctor, who may examine the area and order an X-ray. The doctor will then pop the joint back into place, typically resulting in an immediate and dramatic reduction in pain. Depending on the severity of swelling, this procedure may need to be done surgically. You may require physical therapy as your shoulder heals to prevent permanent damage to the bone, tendon and ligaments in the area.
Prevention
Skateboarders should wear protective gear such as shoulder pads to prevent shoulder dislocations. Knee pads and helmets can also help because they encourage you to fall on your knees rather than leaning on your shoulder to prevent an injury to the head. New skateboarders should learn the proper way to fall and should never try skateboarding tricks that are far beyond their skill level.
References
- Mayo Clinic Family Health Book; Mayo Clinic
- Biology: Life on Earth With Physiology; Gerald Audesirk, et al.
