Shoulder and elbow dislocation

Dislocations often happen during sports activity such as skiing or rugby. The symptoms are very noticeable, mainly a square or bulging shoulder as the shoulder joint pops out from the front. Your dislocation will have been reduced by first aid or emergency services.

X-ray, CT and MRI scanning are used to characterise damage to the shoulder. Your consultant can then discuss whether surgery may be needed to repair the damage, or to reduce the risk of further dislocations so your shoulder remains stable.

Most shoulder dislocations benefit from physiotherapy. Some shoulders need a short keyhole operation to repair torn structures inside. This is usually a day case procedure. Collision athletes, and those whose shoulders have dislocated again despite previous keyhole operations, may be advised to undergo a more complex bone operation to rebuild the socket.