Shoulder Dislocation- Causes and Treatment Options Shoulder joint is a ball and socket joint and is very mobile as it moves in all directions. But, because it is free moving and is attached only by ligaments and tissues, it is an unstable joint and can get dislocated easily. When the ball of the arm bone dislodges from the socket of the shoulder bone, it causes dislocation of the shoulder.
There are two types of shoulder dislocations Anterior dislocations happen when a person falls on an outstretched hand. The weight of the body falling on the arm can wrench the arm joint, and the shoulder rotates away from the body, causing a dislocation. Posterior dislocations are not as common and occur sometimes, like during an epileptic fit, and most often in the elderly. Causes of shoulder dislocation •
Injury sports – Shoulder dislocations are common in people who play contact sports like football, basketball, volleyball etc.
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Accidental fall / road traffic accident – Shoulder dislocations can occur during a fall where a person lands awkwardly on the arm or from a direct blow to the shoulder in an accident.
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Weakening of ligaments and tissues in elderly – There is gradual weakening of the ligaments and cartilage that support the shoulder in the elderly.Even a small amount of trauma (usually a fall on an outstretched hand) is enough to dislocate the shoulder in seniors.