SHOULDER INJURY or DISLOCATION

A dislocated shoulder is an injury in which your upper arm bone pops out of the cup-shaped socket that's part of your shoulder blade. The shoulder is the body's most mobile joint, which makes it susceptible to dislocation.

If you suspect a dislocated shoulder, seek prompt medical attention. Most people regain full shoulder function within a few weeks. However, once you've had a dislocated shoulder, your joint may become unstable and be prone to repeat dislocations.

Sports injuries. Shoulder dislocation is a common injury in contact sports, such as football and hockey, and in sports that may involve falls, such as downhill skiing, gymnastics and volleyball.

Trauma not related to sports. A hard blow to your shoulder during a motor vehicle accident is a common source of dislocation.

Falls. You may dislocate your shoulder during a fall, such as from a ladder or from tripping on a loose rug.
 

Dislocated shoulder signs and symptoms may include:

A visibly deformed or out-of-place shoulder

Swelling or bruising

Intense pain

Inability to move the joint

Get medical help right away for a shoulder that appears dislocated.

While you're waiting for medical attention:

Don't move the joint. Splint or sling the shoulder joint in its current position. Don't try to move the shoulder or force it back into place. This can damage the shoulder joint and its surrounding muscles, ligaments, nerves or blood vessels.

Ice the injured joint. Applying ice to your shoulder can help reduce pain and swelling by controlling internal bleeding and the buildup of fluids in and around your shoulder joint.