Shoulder dislocation – dislocation, symptoms and the way back
Shoulder dislocation, also known as a dislocated shoulder, is a common sports injury that causes extreme pain and instability. The injury often occurs during contact sports, falls, or heavy strain on the shoulder joint and always requires medical evaluation.
What is shoulder dislocation?
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body with a very large range of motion. A dislocation means that the head of the upper arm is completely pushed out of the socket of the shoulder blade and becomes stuck in a dislocated position. A subluxation is a partial dislocation where the joint returns on its own. Both conditions involve severe pain and an increased risk of instability in the shoulder joint in the future.
Common causes & risk factors
The most common form of shoulder dislocation occurs forward-downward and is often caused by twisting force when the arm is extended or lifted above the shoulder, for example during throwing events such as handball or in a fall. Backward dislocation is less common but does occur. The injury often leads to stretching or damage to ligaments and stabilizing structures, which increases the risk of recurrent dislocations.
Symptoms
- Intense pain in the shoulder immediately at the time of injury
- Visible misalignment or “dislocated” shoulder
- Severely reduced mobility in the shoulder
- Often swelling and muscle cramps in the area
- Feeling of instability even after reduction
When should you seek medical attention?
If you suspect a shoulder dislocation or subluxation, you should always seek medical attention immediately. It is important to ensure that no blood vessels or nerves have been damaged in connection with the injury.
Recommended protection & support
Rehabilitation often takes place with a physiotherapist and an individual training program. A stabilizing shoulder brace can provide support, compression and controlled movement control that reduces the risk of further dislocations. The brace helps to avoid unstable positions and contributes to a safer return to activity. See all our shoulder products here.
About our Injury Guide – quick guidance in case of complaints
In our Injury Guide, you will receive clear and easy-to-understand information about common injuries, how they occur and what symptoms usually occur. You will also receive recommendations on which protection and aids can relieve your discomfort and help you further in your rehabilitation. All information is based on expert knowledge from our licensed physiotherapist.
For more information about shoulder and neck problems, you can read more in the Shoulder & Neck Injury Guide, and you can also go to the Injury Guide's main page to read about other injuries and symptoms.
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Find the right protection for your needs
There are several ways to find the right product on our website. For a more personalised selection, you can use our filters and sort by injury, body part or sport. You can also get help from our AI assistant Eir, who is trained on all the content on our website and can help you with product recommendations, fit questions and order-related concerns – 24/7. If you would rather speak directly to our licensed physiotherapist, Ida, you can reach her via email or phone for personal advice and support in your product selection.
