What is Shoulder Instability?
A shoulder dislocation is what is referred to when the shoulder joint separates, with the “ball” of the joint leaving the “socket” of the joint. This can occur when enough force is put on the joint, causing the shoulder to dislocate (e.g. Landing with your arm outstretched or receiving a strong hit to the shoulder in an awkward position). Some people may be susceptible to dislocation because of genetic traits causing a shallow joint socket. As this injury is normally associated with a traumatic event to the shoulder, after one dislocation, further dislocations can occur, which is described as instability.
Shoulder Instability
How is Shoulder Instability commonly treated?
The severity of your dislocation will dictate what type of treatment you will receive. Following a dislocation, admittance to hospital is typically necessary to relocate the joint as the shoulder is a very complex joint. More often than not, a shoulder dislocation will cause collateral damage to other structures, such as bone fractures or tendon and ligament tears, which may require surgery. Whether surgery is required or not, exercise rehabilitation will always be a part of treatment to ensure the joint is strong and stable once again.
How can an Exercise Physiologist help?
An Exercise Physiologist will be a part of the team of health practitioners you will work with to fully rehabilitate your shoulder. An exercise physiologist can be very helpful in later stages of rehabilitation when rebuilding your strength and stability and when transitioning back into normal activities and sport. Working with an EP can ensure you are doing all the necessary things required to properly rehabilitate from injury and avoid ongoing pain and instability.
