Patients with a history of shoulder dislocations are frequently seen in sports medicine clinics.
Patients with a history of shoulder dislocations are frequently seen in sports medicine clinics. The most common sport in which the initial dislocation episode occurs is football. However, wrestling and hockey also report high numbers of glenohumeral instability events.
The term ‘glenohumeral instability’ encompasses a large spectrum of disease from joint subluxation to a complete dislocation. When considering shoulder instability, knowledge of the anatomy of the shoulder complex is necessary. The glenohumeral joint is the articulation between the humeral head the shallow glenoid of the scapula.
There are both static and dynamic stabilizers of the shoulder. The dynamic stabilizers of the shoulder include the deltoid muscle, the long head of the biceps, and the rotator cuff. The static stabilizers are the glenoid labrum and glenohumeral ligaments.
The glenoid labrum should be thought of as the bumpers on the the edge of the glenoid. They are small triangularly shaped structures that act to prevent translation of the humeral head. They also serve to deepen the glenoid cavity.
The joint capsule is a 1-4.5mm thick capsule that is made up of linked collagen fibers. There are then an inferior, middle, and superior glenohumeral ligaments which also serve as stabilizers of the joint and are found within the joint capsule. Each glenohumeral ligament acts to stabilize the humeral head in different arm positions.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to shoulder instability, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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