Shoulder > Shoulder Subluxation/Dislocation
A subluxation occurs when the bone partially separates from the joint. A dislocation occurs when the bone entirely separates from the joint and needs an outside force to be put back in place. Shoulder dislocations are common among football players and other impact athletes.
MOI: Shoulder subluxations and dislocations are common among impact athletes and are typically due to a fall on an outstretched hand. Repeat dislocations can lead to chronic instability, allowing the shoulder to dislocate with minor trauma (rolling the wrong way in bed, etc.)
Contributing Factors: Instability of the shoulder joint. Weakness of the rotator cuff muscles. History of shoulder trauma.
Signs/Symptoms: Pain in the shoulder. Feeling of weakness or inability to move the shoulder. Visible deformity in the front of the shoulder. Numbness/tingling in arm.
At Home Tests: Sulcus Sign (see video)
At Home Treatment: A full dislocation is a medical emergency and will need to be reduced by a medical professional. An athletic trainer may do this on the sidelines of a game, or a physician will in the emergency department.
What is the difference between a subluxation and dislocation?
Both dislocations and subluxations are the shifting of two opposing bone surfaces at a joint. In a subluxation, the bones shift apart momentarily and then return to their normal position. In a dislocation, the bones shift and remain displaced, requiring a medical professional to relocate/reduce the displacement.
When to Seek Help: Contact your physical therapist immediately after the reduction of a dislocated shoulder. Even if you “just” sublux your shoulder, you need to be evaluated by a physical therapist as repeat subluxations without treatment can lead to full dislocation.
Treatment at Inspired Athletx: After a subluxation or dislocation, manual therapy techniques will reduce pain and improve mobility, allowing for progression into rotator cuff strengthening, shoulder stability training, and sport specific exercise. Click here to schedule a physical therapy evaluation with us.
Disclaimer: The content contained in this section of the website is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to function as a substitute for a professional diagnosis or treatment from a licensed healthcare provider.
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