Struggling with a dislocated shoulder can be difficult and frustrating. The joint of the shoulder does not always heal quickly, making it hard to find relief. 

That is why POBAR exists – we help families improve their children's orthopedic health by providing assistance through this challenging time for a brighter future. We offer personalized pediatric orthopedic treatments in Tampa, FL. We can help families get the care they need for their children!

In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at recurrent shoulder dislocations and how Shoulder Reconstruction might help, if needed. 

What is a Dislocated Shoulder?

“A dislocated shoulder” – you only have to say the words and already you can feel the pain. This is because, out of all the joints in the body, our shoulders have the most extensive range of movement.

It helps us to lift, grab and move around freely. If a shoulder is dislocated, then, it can cause serious difficulties in everyday life. It is therefore important to understand the condition and learn how to treat it, even if you personally have never had a dislocated shoulder before.

The shoulder is the easiest joint to dislocate and most dislocations happen through the front of the shoulder, often when the ligaments of the shoulder are torn or stretched.  Dislocated shoulders are mainly caused by accidents, but can sometimes be caused by congenital disorders too.

If your child dislocates his/her shoulder, they will feel intense and immediate pain. 

Symptoms of a Shoulder Dislocation? 

It is fairly easy to identify your child’s shoulder dislocation as the pain can be excruciating and it may look visibly out of its socket. There may be swelling and bruising around the dislocated area and movement may be hindered and it will also be hard for your child to achieve full motion. 

Shoulder dislocation can affect areas around the shoulder, running down the arm, or in the neck. These areas can feel numb, weak, or tingly. The muscles in the shoulder often spasm and this can contribute to further pain. 

What Causes a Shoulder Dislocation? 

The shoulder, like any part of the body, is vulnerable to blows and injury. These injuries could result from the following: 

• high activity, such as when you are an athlete and you come in contact with others. i.e. contact sports like football or hockey.

• when you overexert yourself. If you over-exert the shoulder and twist it too far,  this can cause the ball to pull out of place. 

• Another cause of shoulder dislocation is a hard blow to the area that can happen through a motor vehicle accident or collision. 

• Falling can be a hazard, depending on how you land, should you land on your shoulder, the damage could be mild or severe. Falling from a height, such as a ladder can also be a cause for shoulder dislocation. 

When To Seek Medical Attention For Your Child?

It is important to get medical attention right away for your child when his or her shoulder appears dislocated. Dr. Bradley, is an experienced pediatric orthopedic surgeon in Tampa, FL. He has a wealth of experience and is very kind to children who have dislocated their shoulders. While waiting for medical attention, make sure that your child does not:

• Make sure that your child does not move the affected joint - you can do this with a sling or splint. It is important not to force it back into place. This could damage the shoulder joint, the surrounding muscles, ligaments, nerves, and even blood vessels.

• Ice your child’s injured joint as that can reduce the pain and the swelling.

Shoulder Reconstruction: The Best Treatment Option for your Child’s Shoulder Dislocation. 

The doctor will examine the extent of the damage to your child’s shoulder and will determine the treatment necessary. Should the dislocation be severe then it would be time to consider Shoulder Reconstruction surgery.

Shoulder Reconstruction is a procedure that is performed surgically to correct and heal the dislocation. The surgery is meant to restore the use of the shoulder and can prevent recurrent dislocations. The torn or stretched ligaments are repaired to hold the shoulder joint in place.

During surgery, the doctor will attach a rim of soft tissue called the labrum back to the shoulder. The labrum surrounds the ball socket and supports the bones that hold the shoulder in its proper place. This attachment will ensure that the ligaments are tightened.

An Arthroscopic procedure is often performed on the shoulder for a rotator cuff repair, repair of the labrum, or repair of ligaments. Two small incisions are made to examine and repair the tissues around your shoulder joint. Sometimes, a more invasive procedure may be required, this would involve the doctor making a larger incision over the shoulder and a longer recovery time. 

What is the Recovery Time from Shoulder Reconstruction?

After surgery, your child will have to keep his or her arm in a sling for 4 to 6 weeks. This will keep the shoulder in place so that it can properly heal and recover. Your child may experience moderate pain but the doctor will prescribe pediatric-approved medication to ease the discomfort. 

Usually, with minimal damage, your child can return to daily activities or sports within a few weeks. They can stop wearing the sling after a few days, however, it does take about 12 to 16 weeks to completely recover from a dislocated shoulder. It is also best to avoid heavy lifting and any sport involving shoulder movements until at least the 12-week mark of your child’s recovery.

Risk Factors and Complications

Dislocated shoulders can be seen in many athletes, teens, and people in their twenties. However, anyone can experience this painful injury.

The complications from a Shoulder Dislocation can include:

• Tearing of the muscles, ligaments, and tendons 

• Nerve or blood vessel damage

• Repeat dislocation, especially if the injury is severe, can happen again and again.

All of which might require further surgery for repair.

Aftercare of a Shoulder Reconstruction

• After the doctor puts the shoulder back in place, he may put your arm in a sling or shoulder immobilizer. This will keep it from moving.

• Exercise and physiotherapy can help your shoulder get strong and move normally again. 

• Put ice or a cold pack on your shoulder for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. 

• If the doctor gave you exercises to do at home, do them exactly as the doctor told you.

• Do not do anything that makes the pain worse.

Schedule an Appointment at POBAR with Dr. Bradley - an Experienced Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon in Tampa, FL

If your child has a recurrent shoulder dislocation and you would like to get it fixed,  We got you covered! We treat acute and chronic sports injuries tailored to patients and their needs/sports as well as their ongoing development. 

Whether that is returning to a sport or simply being able to perform daily activities. We look forward to helping you reach your full potential. Make an Appointment Today!