ORTHOPAEDIC · CONDITION GUIDE
Shoulder Dislocation
A condition where the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket — causing intense pain, visible deformity, and instability — most commonly resulting from trauma or sport.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Shoulder Dislocation?
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, but this mobility also makes it the most commonly dislocated. A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) is forced out of the cup-shaped socket (glenoid). It most frequently occurs anteriorly — where the ball slips out to the front — and is often caused by a fall, sports collision, or forced outward rotation of the arm. A first-time dislocation is treated by relocating the joint (reduction). However, when dislocations become recurrent, the torn labrum and stretched ligaments rarely heal adequately on their own, leading to ongoing instability. Surgical stabilisation is often necessary to prevent repeated episodes and protect the joint from long-term damage. Dr. Sai Kishan Sirasala specialises in arthroscopic shoulder stabilisation at Lux Hospitals.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- A fall on an outstretched arm forcing the ball out of the socket
- Direct trauma or collision to the shoulder during contact sport
- Forced external rotation of the arm beyond its normal range
- Generalised joint hypermobility increasing shoulder instability risk
- Repeated minor dislocations gradually stretching the stabilising structures
- Bone loss at the glenoid socket or humeral head from repeated dislocations
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Anterior (most common), posterior, or multidirectional instability
Bankart repair, Latarjet procedure, or capsular plication
Arthroscopic Bankart repair preferred for first-time or recurrent instability
Sling for 3–4 weeks; return to sport typically in 4–6 months
Over 90% of patients treated surgically do not experience further dislocations
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Dr. Sai Kishan offers both arthroscopic Bankart repair and the Latarjet procedure for shoulder instability, selecting the most appropriate technique based on the number of previous dislocations, degree of bone loss, and the patient's activity demands — including return to contact sport.
Dr. Sai Kishan offers both arthroscopic Bankart repair and the Latarjet procedure, selecting the technique based on bone loss, previous dislocations, and the patient's return-to-sport demands.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Clinical examination, X-ray, MRI or CT arthrogram are used to confirm the dislocation type, characterise labral and bone loss, and evaluate the degree of instability.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Based on the frequency of dislocations, bone loss, and activity level, the most appropriate stabilisation procedure is selected for the patient.
- 3
Surgical Procedure
Arthroscopic Bankart repair or the Latarjet procedure is performed to reattach the torn labrum or reconstruct the bony rim of the socket, restoring shoulder stability.
- 4
Rehabilitation & Recovery
A sling is worn for 3–4 weeks. Structured physiotherapy restores shoulder strength and stability. Most patients return to sport within 4–6 months of surgery.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Arthroscopic Bankart Repair
The torn labrum is reattached to the shoulder socket using tiny anchors through keyhole incisions — the standard procedure for recurrent shoulder dislocations.
Latarjet Procedure
A small bone block is transferred to the front of the shoulder socket to rebuild its edge — used when bone loss makes soft tissue repair alone insufficient.
Capsular Shift / Plication
The loose capsule surrounding your shoulder joint is tightened and reinforced, helping prevent the shoulder from slipping out of place in multiple directions.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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