Shoulder instability occurs due to laxity in the shoulder joint which causes the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) to slip out of the shoulder joint. In some cases this can be a chronic condition that develops over time or can be due to genetics.
An individual may also have Multidirectional Instability which is when there is no history of an injury or repetitive strain but the shoulder is unstable. This can cause the shoulder to feel loose and may dislocate in multiple directions. These individuals may also be ‘double jointed’.
Causes
- Repetitive overhead movements
- Genetics
- Some individuals have looser ligaments from their natural anatomy.
- Shoulder dislocation(s)
Symptoms
- Pain
- Repeated Shoulder Dislocations
- Feel like shoulder is giving out
- Shoulder feels loose
- Shoulder slipping in and out of the joint
- Feeling of the shoulder just ‘hanging there’
Risk Factors
- Repetitive Overhead Activities
- Swimming, Tennis, Volleyball
- Double Jointed individuals
Diagnosis
- Physical Exam
- X-rays
- MRI
Treatment Options
- Non-Surgical
- Activity Modifications
- NSAIDS
- Physical Therapy
- Surgical
- Arthroscopy
- Open Surgery
