When the Shoulder Slips Out of Place
The shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body, which makes it especially prone to dislocation. A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of its socket (glenoid). This can happen after a fall, sports injury, or sudden impact.
Dislocations may be partial (subluxation), where the bone slips partly out of place, or complete, where it comes fully out of the socket. Both can cause pain and instability, and may damage nearby ligaments, tendons, or nerves.
Signs of a Dislocated Shoulder
Typical symptoms include:
- Intense shoulder pain immediately after injury
- Visible deformity or the shoulder appearing “out of place”
- Swelling or bruising around the joint
- Inability to move the arm without severe pain
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand
How Do Shoulder Dislocations Happen?
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Sports injuries – Especially in contact sports (rugby, basketball) or overhead activities
- Falls – Landing on an outstretched hand or directly on the shoulder
- Previous dislocations – Once dislocated, the shoulder may be more prone to future instability
- Joint looseness – Some people naturally have more flexible joints, increasing the risk
Diagnosing a Shoulder Dislocation
A doctor will assess the position of the arm, check for nerve or blood vessel injury, and may order imaging:
- X-rays – To confirm the dislocation and rule out fractures
- MRI scans – To evaluate damage to ligaments, tendons, or cartilage
Treatment Options for a Dislocated Shoulder
The goal is to return the shoulder to its normal position, relieve pain, and prevent repeat dislocations.
Immediate Care
- Do not attempt to push the shoulder back in yourself — this should only be done by a trained medical professional.
- The joint is usually repositioned in a procedure called closed reduction.
Medications
- Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines may be prescribed after reduction.
Immobilisation
- A sling may be used for a short period to allow tissues to heal.
Physiotherapy
- Strengthening the shoulder and surrounding muscles to improve stability
- Range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness
Injections
- May be considered for pain management in some cases
Surgery
- Recommended if the shoulder is unstable after multiple dislocations, or if there is significant damage to ligaments, cartilage, or bone
- Surgical techniques may involve repairing torn tissues (Bankart repair) or stabilising the socket
Preventing Future Dislocations
- Strengthen the rotator cuff and shoulder muscles
- Avoid overhead heavy lifting or risky positions after recovery
- Use protective gear during contact sports
- Gradually return to activities under medical supervision
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Seek immediate medical care if:
- The shoulder is visibly deformed and cannot be moved
- There is numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm
- Pain is severe after a fall or trauma
Book a Consultation for Shoulder Care
If you have experienced a shoulder dislocation or are dealing with recurrent instability, the team at Mash Spine & Orthopaedics can provide an assessment and guide you on the most suitable treatment.
- Farrer Park Medical Centre, 1 Farrer Park Station Road, #07-14 Connexion, Singapore 217562
- Call +65 6518 9545
- Book your Appointment Today
Shoulder Dislocation – At a Glance
What it is:
- When the upper arm bone slips out of the shoulder socket
Key Symptoms:
- Severe pain and visible deformity
- Swelling, bruising, or inability to move the arm
- Numbness or weakness in the arm or hand
Who’s at risk:
- Athletes in contact or overhead sports
- People with a history of shoulder dislocations
- Those with naturally loose joints
Treatment Options:
- Closed reduction (realignment of the joint)
- Medications and immobilisation with a sling
- Physiotherapy for strength and stability
- Surgery for repeated dislocations or significant damage
