A dislocated shoulder occurs when the top of the humerus, the upper arm bone, completely separates from its socket in the shoulder blade. This injury can be quite common due to the shoulder’s wide range of motion, making it one of the most mobile joints in the body. Recognizing the signs of a dislocated shoulder quickly is important for proper management.
Key Indicators of a Dislocated Shoulder
The affected shoulder may appear visibly out of place, showing a noticeable deformity like a squared-off appearance, unusual bulge, or depression. Swelling and bruising can quickly develop around the shoulder area, contributing to these visible changes. In some cases, the arm might hang lower than usual, or appear slightly longer than the uninjured side.
The pain associated with a dislocated shoulder is intense and immediate. This pain often worsens with any attempt to move the arm, and muscle spasms can contribute to the discomfort. Beyond pain, functional limitations are prominent, including the inability to move the arm or an awkward, unnatural arm position. Weakness in the arm is also a common symptom.
Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand can also indicate a dislocated shoulder. This occurs due to potential compression or damage to nerves, such as the axillary nerve. Sometimes, individuals might recall hearing or feeling a distinct “pop” or “clunk” at the moment of injury.
Immediate Steps for a Suspected Dislocation
If a shoulder dislocation is suspected, immediately immobilize the injured arm. Using a sling, or even a makeshift one from a towel or shirt, can help keep the arm still and close to the body, preventing further movement and potential damage. Supporting the arm in this way can also provide some comfort to the injured individual.
Applying ice to the affected area can help manage swelling and pain. An ice pack, or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a cloth, should be placed on the shoulder for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time. It is important to avoid direct skin contact with the ice to prevent skin damage. This can be repeated every two to three hours during the initial hours after the injury.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, if appropriate, can also help alleviate some discomfort. Never attempt to move the shoulder back into place independently or allow a non-medical professional to do so. Realigning the shoulder without proper training can cause serious injuries, including damage to nerves, blood vessels, ligaments, tendons, or fractures.
When Professional Medical Help is Needed
A suspected shoulder dislocation requires immediate professional medical attention. This injury is a medical emergency, and prompt assessment and treatment by healthcare providers are essential. Only medical professionals possess the expertise and tools to safely and correctly reduce a dislocated shoulder, which involves manipulating the bone back into its socket.
Seeking professional help ensures proper diagnosis and identification of any associated damage. Medical professionals can assess for other injuries, such as fractures, nerve damage, or ligament tears, which may not be immediately obvious. They will typically perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests, such as X-rays, to confirm the dislocation and rule out other bone injuries. Sometimes, an MRI might be used to evaluate soft tissue damage.
Delaying treatment or attempting improper reduction can lead to significant complications. These include chronic shoulder instability, increased risk of recurrent dislocations, permanent nerve damage, and long-term joint damage to cartilage or the labrum. Untreated dislocations can result in muscle imbalances, limited range of motion, and contribute to early arthritis development. Before the reduction procedure, pain medication or sedation may be administered to ease discomfort, and a sling will typically be provided afterward to immobilize the shoulder during the initial healing phase.