Shoulder injuries are a common risk in contact sports, such as soccer, basketball, and martial arts. One injury to watch out for is shoulder dislocation, a condition where the upper arm bone moves out of its normal position in the shoulder joint.
What is Shoulder Dislocation?
Shoulder dislocation is a condition in which the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) is dislodged from the socket of the shoulder joint. The shoulder joint is the most flexible joint in the body, but this also makes it more susceptible to injury.
Causes in Contact Sports
In contact sports, shoulder dislocations generally occur due to:
- Direct impact to the shoulder
- Falling with your hands supporting your body
- A strong pull or push when dueling with an opponent
- Sudden extreme movement of the shoulder
This injury can occur in professional athletes as well as individuals who actively participate in sports.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Some signs of shoulder dislocation include:
- Sudden severe pain in the shoulder
- The shape of the shoulder looks abnormal or changed
- Cannot move arms
- Swelling or bruising around the shoulder
- Numbness or tingling sensation
This condition usually requires immediate medical attention.
Shoulder Dislocation Treatment
Initial treatment aims to return the bone to its original position (repositioning), which must be performed by medical personnel. After that, further treatment includes:
- Immobilization using a sling
- Pain reliever
- Physiotherapy to restore shoulder strength and stability
In certain cases, especially if there are repeated dislocations, surgery may be necessary to repair the structure of the shoulder joint.
Risks If Left Untreated
Untreated shoulder dislocation can increase the risk of:
- Recurrent injury (shoulder instability)
- Damage to the tissue around the shoulder
- Decreased arm function and strength
Injury Prevention
To reduce the risk of shoulder dislocation , several steps that can be taken include:
- Warm up before exercise
- Train the strength of the shoulder muscles and surrounding areas
- Using the correct technique when playing
- Use protection if necessary
Don't Ignore Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries, especially dislocations, require prompt and appropriate treatment. If you experience shoulder discomfort after exercise, consult a doctor immediately for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Article written by Dr. Arrio Yusman, Sp.OT (K) Sports Injury (Orthopedic & Traumatology Specialist, Sports Injury Consultant at EMC Pekayon Hospital).