What Causes Shoulder Instability?

When we think of peak health, we tend to picture high profile athletes. Whether they’re a Major League Baseball player or a college basketball star, we usually look to athletes to be the examples for strength and physical fitness. 

However, athletes face the same risks of injury as anyone else. The fact is, injuries are extremely common and impossible to completely prevent. One common injury is shoulder instability.

In this blog, the experts at MidJersey Orthopaedics explain what shoulder instability is, why it can occur, and how you can recover from it.

Shoulder instability 101

Shoulder instability describes a condition in which the shoulder has been partially or fully dislocated. Both of these experiences are caused when the tendons and ligaments that keep the shoulder in place become loose or torn. Depending on the case, you may experience one or a combination of symptoms, including any of the following:

• Pain
• Popping sensations in your shoulder
• Difficulty moving your shoulder or arm
• Sensitivity at your shoulder joint
• A feeling that your shoulder is stuck

Those who are young and athletic are at a high risk of developing shoulder instability. However, anyone can experience this injury if they subject their shoulders to overuse or if they suffer trauma, which are the two main causes.

Treating shoulder instability

If you have symptoms of shoulder instability, first, make an appointment with us. We’ll go over your medical history and give you a thorough exam. As part of your exam, we may take X-rays and MRIs or perform other diagnostic procedures.

Once we have a diagnosis, we’ll recommend treatment options. Options could include any of the following:

• Physical therapy
• Activity modification
• Ice or heat treatments
• Exercise programs
• Braces
• Laser treatments
• Medications
• Injections
• Surgery

We usually recommend conservative options first before trying anything invasive.

Recovering from shoulder instability 

Your recovery time will depend on a number of factors, including your overall health, management of any chronic conditions, and the severity of your injury. With rest and treatment, you may be able to return to your activities in several weeks.

In all cases, however, you’ll need to follow your doctor’s guidelines exactly and report back to them if your condition worsens or doesn’t improve. Furthermore, you shouldn’t try to rush through treatment. This could make your shoulder worse and extend your recovery time. Furthermore, if you don’t give your shoulder the rest and care it needs, your condition could become a chronic problem.

If you have symptoms of shoulder instability, the experts at MidJersey Orthopaedics can help you get well. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone today.