Recurrent shoulder dislocation

From greek.doctor
  • Chronic/recurrent dislocation of the shoulder, also called chronic shoulder instability
  • Etiology
    • Untreated or poorly treated previous trauma
      • Most common cause
      • After one traumatic dislocation the joint capsule is torn, which predisposes to recurrent dislocation
      • After a dislocated shoulder has been reduced, further dislocations must be prevented by immobilizing the shoulder
      • Immobilizing allows the joint capsule to heal back to its normal and tight position
      • No immobilization causes the joint capsule to heal into a looser position
    • Dysplasia (underdevelopment of the glenoid fossa)
    • Voluntary dislocation
      • Due to psychiatric problems
  • Types according to direction
    • Antero-inferior dislocation (most common)
    • Posterior dislocation
      • Mostly only occurs in epilepsy or electric shock, especially if bilateral
  • Treatment of recurrent dislocation
    • Surgical stabilization