PROCEDURES

Shoulder instability

Shoulder instability occurs when the structures around your shoulder joint don’t work at keeping the ball tightly within the socket. In extreme cases, the shoulder dislocates and needs to be reduced back to its normal position, or it partially slides out of place. Shoulder instability may occur after an injury such as a fall or sports injuries such as rugby, where the shoulder dislocates and damages the tissues. It may also occur spontaneously due to the looseness of the joint.

What are the related shoulder instability symptoms?

Signs and symptoms of shoulder instability are similar to those of a dislocated shoulder. People with shoulder instability can sometimes feel the shoulder's ball come out of its socket, which may cause excruciating pain. Other symptoms may include functional problems as there may be a restriction to everyday activities. It is important that you seek immediate medical attention in any event of an injury that may leave your shoulder dislocated or not stable.

How is shoulder instability treated?

Dr Bismilla will first perform a clinical examination to give him information about the extent and direction of your shoulder instability. He may also do an x-ray to obtain information about the possible causes of the instability and to understand what could be the possible cause of the shoulder pain, such as a fracture.

Dr Bismilla may recommend the following to treat shoulder instability:

• Conservative treatments such as physical therapy to help the muscles provide stability to your shoulder and help regain lost motion, reduce apprehension and restore shoulder function.
• Arthroscopic/open shoulder stabilisation: The orthopaedic surgeon may recommend this procedure if shoulder instability is recurrent and cannot be controlled with physical therapy. During surgery, Dr Bismilla will make an incision on your shoulder, and an arthroscope or an open technique and other instruments are passed through the incisions so that he may repair the bone if the bone is fractured, using metal anchors. He will then stitch the ligaments and muscles together and also stitch the incisions closed. A sling may be used to immobilise your arm.