CONDITIONS TREATED

Unstable Shoulders

Location

Instability in the shoulder is usually a result of trauma causing the ball joint at the front of the shoulder to partially or fully dislocate, which is then unable to function normally because of damage to the soft tissues around the joint.

Symptoms

Instability can range from a partial dislocation which recovers naturally to a full disclocation, which needs anaesthesia and traction to reduce pain and swelling. In younger patients, there is then a substantially higher chance of recurrent dislocations and joint damage, so early repair surgery is usually recommended for the under-30s.

Diagnosis

Following initial physical examination, x-ray and MRI will be recommended to confirm the extent of damage to the ligaments, capsule and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint.

Treatment

Surgery will aim to repair the damaged capsule and ligaments, usually arthroscopically into the shoulder joint to reattach the torn ligaments. Recovery can usually be achieved within 4-6 months.