Elbow Fractures and Dislocations – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
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Shoulder injuries in football
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What to do when your shoulder dislocates?
Shoulder dislocation is a common problem, especially in young athletes. A dislocation occurs when the head of the humerus moves excessively away from its articular surface in the shoulder blade, causing significant pain and functional limitations.
How can shoulder dislocations occur?
Shoulder dislocation is most common after excessive arm-opening movements, or a fall onto an outstretched arm. However, it can occur with simple movements or even during sleep in recurrent cases. Seizures can also result in shoulder dislocations due to uncoordinated muscle contraction.
What does a dislocated shoulder feel like?
When a dislocation occurs, it is common to hear a sensation of a snapping or clicking sound in the joint. Intense pain and the inability to lift the arm are immediate. A deformity may be visible, with prominence of the bony structures in the upper region of the shoulder and the need to hold the arm with the contralateral hand. Sometimes, the shoulder returns to the joint spontaneously, with a new sensation of snapping and relief, with recovery of mobility.
What should I do if I have a dislocated shoulder?
If you suffer a dislocated shoulder, it is possible to put it back in place through a few simple maneuvers. Firstly, it is essential to stay calm and try to relax the muscles around the shoulder and in the back area, as the muscle contraction that occurs in response to pain prevents the shoulder from reducing. Then, in a seated position with your knees bent, your hands can hug your knees and, with your elbows straight, when you lean back you will be pulling on your shoulder to return to its position.
When self-reduction is impossible, an emergency department should be consulted as soon as possible.
What happens after dislocation reduction?
Once the dislocation has been reduced (by the patient or a healthcare professional), the arm may be immobilised in a suspension for a few days to provide rest and comfort. After this, treatment may involve rehabilitation to restore mobility and strengthen the surrounding muscles. In some cases, when instability occurs frequently or there is a high risk, such as in contact sports, surgery to stabilise the shoulder may be an option that improves the condition, with excellent results in the medium and long term.
Assessment by a shoulder and sports medicine specialist allows for an integrated approach and a return to the desired activity as quickly as possible.
