Shoulder Dislocation

Shoulder Dislocation Specialist

Sports or work-related activities that involve overhead movements or repeated use of the shoulder may sometimes cause dislocation of the shoulder joint. Shoulder dislocation specialist, Dr. Kelechi Okoroha provides diagnosis and individualized non-surgical and surgical management for shoulder dislocation in Minneapolis. Contact Dr. Okoroha’s team for an appointment today!

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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.

When shoulder dislocation is suspected, it is important to schedule an orthopedic consultation for proper examination and care. Dr. Kelechi Okoroha is a shoulder dislocation specialist who provides detailed examination and care for patients with shoulder dislocation in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Minnesota and beyond.

Diagnosis of Shoulder Dislocation

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

Treatments for Shoulder Dislocation

After careful review of your history and examination, Dr. Okoroha will provide an individualized treatment plan to help you return to your normal function.

The condition is usually 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.