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Shoulder

Shoulder Dislocation

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the ball of the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket. It is the most commonly dislocated major joint in the body and is frequently seen in contact sports.

⏱️
Typical Recovery Time
Initial recovery 2-4 weeks. Return to sport 3-6 months

🔍 Symptoms

  • Visibly out of place or deformed shoulder
  • Intense shoulder pain
  • Inability to move the shoulder joint
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Numbness or tingling down the arm

⚡ Common Causes

  • Direct blow to the shoulder
  • Fall on an outstretched arm
  • Forceful rotation of the arm
  • Contact sport collision
  • Previous shoulder dislocation

💊 Treatment Options

1Immediate medical attention to relocate the joint
2Sling immobilization for 2-4 weeks
3Ice and pain management
4Physical therapy to restore strength and stability
5Surgery for recurrent dislocations

🚨 When to See a Doctor

Go to the emergency room immediately if you suspect a shoulder dislocation — do not try to relocate it yourself.

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