Shoulder Dislocation Definition & Overview

Definition

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) pops out of the shallow shoulder socket of the scapula (called the glenoid). This can happen when a strong force pulls the shoulder upward or outward, or from an extreme external rotation of the humerus.

Glenohumeral dislocations are generally classified by the direction of dislocation of the humerus.

Dislocation can be full or partial:

Partial dislocation (also called subluxation)—the head of the humerus slips out of the socket momentarily and then snaps back into place
Full dislocation—the head of the humerus comes completely out of the socket

Shoulder dislocations can also be associated with fractures—one can have a fracture and dislocation at the same time. Nerves and blood vessels can sometimes be injured with a severe shoulder dislocation, requiring immediate medical attention.

Shoulder Dislocation

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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Shoulder Instability by ]]>Debra Wood, RN]]>