Comprehensive Shoulder Instability Treatment in Pittsburgh, PA

Shoulder Instability

The shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body, and when it is injured, it could lead to partial or complete dislocation. Shoulder instability is a condition in which the shoulder joint is not as stable as it should be, causing frequent injuries like dislocation or subluxation. Shoulder instability symptoms can vary, depending on the type of instability present. They may include:

• Pain with certain movements of the shoulder.
• Popping or grinding sound that may be heard or felt.
• Swelling and bruising of the shoulder.

This chronic condition that causes frequent dislocation of the shoulder can be due to a number of reasons, including:

• A dislocated shoulder - This occurs when the ball at the top of the shoulder (humerus) pops out of the socket (glenoid). This can happen suddenly, due to trauma, or it may happen gradually over time. Because of pressure on nerves and blood vessels, partial paralysis may occur below the dislocation.
• Subluxation - This is when the shoulder joint partially dislocates. This can happen suddenly, due to trauma, or it may happen gradually over time. After subluxation or sensation changes like numbness, visible deformation and loss of function in the shoulder might occur.
• Loose or torn ligaments - Ligaments are the tissues that connect bone to bone. If they are loose or torn, they can no longer provide adequate stability to the shoulder joint.
• A weakened rotator cuff - A rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach the shoulder blade to the upper arm. These muscles and tendons help to stabilize the shoulder joint. If they are weak, they can no longer provide adequate stability to the shoulder joint.

Your orthopaedic shoulder specialist can diagnose shoulder instability based on your symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. During the physical examination, a shoulder instability test is done to assess the condition of the shoulder joint. This is done by physically examining the shoulder and assessing the range of motion, as well as testing the stability of the shoulder joint. An x-ray or MRI may also be ordered to get a better look at the condition of the shoulder joint and confirm your diagnosis.

When treating shoulder instability, your orthopaedic specialist will likely try concervative treatments first. The goal of conservative treatment for shoulder instability is to restore stability, strength and a full range of motion.

Conservative treatment measures may include:

• Medications - Over-the-counter pain medications and NSAIDs can help reduce the pain and swelling. Steroidal injections may also be administered to decrease swelling.
• Rest - Rest the injured shoulder and avoid activities that require overhead motion. A sling may be worn for 2 weeks to facilitate healing.
• Ice - Ice packs should be applied to the affected area for 20 minutes every hour.
• Closed reduction - Following a dislocation, your surgeon can often manipulate the shoulder joint, usually under anesthesia, realigning it into proper position.

When conservative treatment options fail to improve your condition, surgery may be necessary to restore normal function. Shoulder instability surgery is performed to improve the stability and function of the shoulder joint and prevent recurrent dislocations. It can be performed arthroscopically, depending on your condition, with much smaller incisions.
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure in which an arthroscope, a small flexible tube with a light and video camera at the end, is inserted into a joint to evaluate and treat the condition. There are many benefits to an arthroscopy when compared to the alternative of open shoulder surgery, such as:

• Smaller incisions.
• Minimal soft tissue trauma.
• Less pain.
• Faster recovery.

Following your shoulder instability surgery, your arm may be placed in a sling for three to six weeks. Physical therapy will likely be recommended to improve your shoulder mobility and strength.

Shoulder instability can be a painful condition that comes with frequent and unpredictable dislocations. This kind of pain and discomfort can be a hindrance in your daily life, making simple activities far more difficult. However, long-lasting shoulder instability treatment is possible with Dr. Brian Kelly.

At the office of Brian J. Kelly MD, our team will make sure that you find pain relief. If you are experiencing shoulder pain, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with an experienced shoulder specialist near you.

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