What is shoulder subluxation?

Shoulder subluxation is a partial dislocation of the shoulder joint in which the humeral head partially slips out of the socket but returns to its normal position.

What causes shoulder subluxation?

Shoulder subluxation may result from trauma, sports injuries, ligament laxity, repetitive overhead activities or previous shoulder dislocations.

What are the symptoms of shoulder subluxation?

Symptoms may include shoulder pain, instability, weakness, clicking sensations, apprehension and recurrent episodes of the shoulder slipping out of place.

How is shoulder subluxation diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically includes a physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to evaluate shoulder stability and associated injuries.

Can shoulder subluxation be treated without surgery?

Many patients improve with occupational therapy, strengthening exercises, rehabilitation and activity modification.

When is surgery recommended for shoulder instability?

Surgery may be recommended for recurrent instability, repeated subluxation episodes, associated labral tears or failure of conservative treatment.

What is shoulder stabilization surgery?

Shoulder stabilization surgery repairs damaged structures that support the shoulder joint to reduce instability and prevent recurrent subluxation.

How do I schedule an appointment with Dr. Salil Gupta?

To schedule a consultation for shoulder subluxation evaluation and treatment, please call (212) 400-6633.

Shoulder Subluxation New York | Shoulder Specialist Brooklyn, Manhattan

Subluxation (shoulder)

Have Questions About Shoulder Treatments?

We're here to help you understand your options.

Request an Appointment

Subluxation (shoulder) - Educational Picture

Shoulder subluxation is a condition in which the ball of the shoulder joint partially slips out of its socket without completely dislocating. This partial dislocation can cause pain, instability, weakness, limited range of motion, and a sensation that the shoulder is slipping or giving way during movement. Dr. Salil Gupta is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in upper extremity care, providing comprehensive evaluation and treatment for shoulder instability conditions, including shoulder subluxation.

What is Subluxation?

The shoulder is a highly mobile ball and socket joint. The ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) is held in place at the socket (glenoid) of the shoulder blade (scapula) by a group of ligaments. A partial dislocation of the shoulder joint is termed as a subluxation. This means the ball has partially moved out of the glenoid as opposed to a dislocation, where the ball completely moves out of the glenoid.

What are the Causes of Subluxation?

Subluxation usually occurs from falls or a direct blow to your shoulder. It can also be caused due to a previous shoulder injury or if the ligaments in your shoulder are loose. Subluxations tend to recur due to laxity in the ligaments.

What are the Symptoms of Subluxation?

Subluxation of the shoulder includes the following symptoms:

A feeling that your shoulder has moved out of place
Pain, numbness or weakness of the injured shoulder
A feeling of looseness of the shoulder

How is Subluxation Diagnosed?

Subluxation of the shoulder is diagnosed by a review of your medical history and symptoms, and a thorough physical examination of your shoulder. Your doctor may also recommend X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and identify any fractures of the shoulder joint.

What is the Treatment for Subluxation?

Subluxation of the shoulder is treated with rest, ice packs and NSAIDs to reduce the pain and inflammation. You may be referred to as occupational therapy for shoulder strengthening exercises to help prevent recurrence. Surgery may be required to repair the ligaments if conservative treatment measures do not prevent further subluxations.