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Shoulder Dislocation

Shoulder Dislocation

Anatomy of the Shoulder

The shoulder joint is a ball and socket joint. A ball at the top of the upper arm bone (humerus) fits neatly into a socket, called the glenoid, which is part of the shoulder blade (scapula). The glenoid is surrounded by a ring of fibrous cartilage called the labrum for stabilization of the shoulder joint. 

What is Shoulder Dislocation?

Sports that involve overhead movements and repeated use of the shoulder at your workplace may lead to sliding of the upper arm bone from the glenoid. The dislocation might be a partial dislocation (subluxation) or a complete dislocation causing pain and shoulder joint instability. The shoulder joint often dislocates in the forward direction (anterior instability), and sometimes in the backward or downward direction. 

Symptoms of Shoulder Dislocation

The most common symptoms of shoulder dislocation include pain and shoulder joint instability. Other symptoms such as swelling, numbness and bruising may also occur. At times, it may cause tears in the ligaments or tendons of the shoulder and nerve damage. 

Diagnosis of Shoulder Dislocation

Your doctor will examine your shoulder and may order an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis. 

Treatments for Shoulder Dislocation

The condition is treated by a process called closed reduction, which involves placing the ball of the upper arm back into the socket. Following this, the shoulder will be immobilized using a sling for several weeks. Ice may be applied over the area 3-4 times a day. Rehabilitation exercises may be started to restore range of motion, once the pain and swelling decrease.

Locations & Directions

5010 State Highway 30
Amsterdam, NY 12010
(Located right next to St. Mary’s
Amsterdam Memorial Campus)

Mohawk Valley Orthopedics, P.C.: Suite 205
Mohawk Valley MRI: Suite G01 Get Directions - Main Office
- MRI

Satellite Location:

434 S. Kingsboro Ave.
Suite 102

Johnstown, NY 12095
Get Directions

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Hours

Mohawk Valley Orthopedics, P.C. Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Mohawk Valley MRI Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM - 6:30 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Parking

Lots are located in both the front
(Route 30) & the back of the building.

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