Dislocation and Instability
Despite a dislocated joint having been put back into place, some patients suffer repeat dislocations and feelings of instability due to a rupture of a ligament (the labrum)that runs round the circumference of the socket.
Symptoms
The shoulder feels unstable and ‘can’t be trusted to stay in joint’ - particularly during overhead activities and throwing.
Investigations
X rays and an MRI scan.
Treatments
Non-Operative: The shoulder joint can be strengthened with physiotherapy.
Operative: If physiotherapy fails to strengthen the shoulder joint then keyhole surgery can be undertaken to reattach the rubbery ligament which runs round the circumference of the socket.
Diagram showing the Labrum torn away from the socket
