Shoulder instability is an unstable shoulder. Your shoulder is made up of bones that form a ball and socket. When you have an unstable shoulder the ball of the shoulder is not staying within the socket. If your joint is too loose the ball of the shoulder can:
1. Slide around in the socket.
2. Slide partially out of the socket (called subluxation or partial dislocation).
3. Slide completely out of the socket (called shoulder dislocation)
All the above movements can result in pain.
Normally, several structures work together to provide stability at a shoulder. This includes the bony structure of the joint surfaces, ligaments, muscles, and the capsule (demonstrated with the ball in the sock).
Shoulder instability is generally caused by one of three problems:
1. Trauma or injury. The shoulder becomes unstable due to tearing or stretching of the shoulder ligaments.
2. A person may naturally have loose ligaments. They may have joint laxity or double-jointedness throughout their body.
3. Some athletes who are involved in sports with repetitive overhead activities develop shoulder instability. Examples include volleyball players, swimmers, and baseball players.
Typical signs that may occur with an unstable shoulder:
1. Repeated shoulder dislocations.
2. Repeated instances of the shoulder giving away or feeling like it is coming out of the socket.
3. A sensation that the shoulder feels loose or that it is just hanging there.
Tests for unstable shoulder:
1. Sulcus sign. Pull on the involved arm toward to floor. Look for an indentation on the front of the shoulder.
2. Apprehension sign (should be done by a qualified health professional- do not attempt on your own). Can be done seated or lying on your back. Lift the arm out to the side to a right angle. Bend elbow to 90 degrees. Externally rotate and look for signs of apprehension- the person feels as though it may dislocate.
3. Look for signs of loose ligaments throughout the body. Check fingers, thumb, and elbow. Can you bend your fingers back to 90 degrees or a right angle?
Can your thumb touch your forearm?
Does your elbow hyperextend?
4. Have someone hold on to your collarbone and shoulder blade with one hand. With their other hand, they should attempt to move their upper arm forward and back. Look for instability, clicking, and popping.
If you have an unstable shoulder or shoulder that dislocates you will want to see your doctor. Your doctor can provide you with the appropriate recommendations for rehabilitation and/or surgery.
Check out the full Shoulder Pain Relief Program series of videos along with downloadable guide sheets for each video on our website here: https://www.bobandbrad.com/health-programs/shoulder-pain-relief-program
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