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1609 Woodbourne Rd #203B | Levittown, PA 19057 (215) 945-0100

2776 Knights Rd | Bensalem, PA 19020 (215) 945-0100

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Shoulder Articles

Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder) Shoulder Instability Reoccurring Dislocations Posterior Dislocation Multidirectional Instability Signs and Symptoms Shoulder Tendonitis and Impingement Rotator Cuff Tears Acromioclavicular Separation (Separated Shoulder) Labral Tears

Links: Neck : Shoulder : Back : Elbow : Wrist & Hand : Hip: Knee : Leg : Ankle & Foot

Posterior Dislocation

Posterior Dislocation

Posterior dislocations, in which the arm moves backward out of the shoulder socket, are relatively uncommon, accounting for only about 4% of dislocations. However, there is a growing recognition of posterior subluxation in athletes participating in sports such as tennis and baseball.

As emphasized previously, a sudden posterior dislocation is considered a medical emergency. It is crucial for the patient to be promptly taken to the emergency room to assess potential damage to the blood vessels or nerves supplying the shoulder, arm, and hand. In most cases, the emergency room physician can manipulate the arm in a specific manner to relocate the dislocated shoulder back into its proper position. Surgical intervention is rarely required for posterior dislocations. Pain management is typically achieved through the prescription of pain medications and muscle relaxants, while the application of ice can help alleviate discomfort. Physical therapy is typically initiated around 2-3 weeks after the dislocation to facilitate the strengthening of the shoulder joint-supporting muscles.

Possible Treatments

Active Assistive Range of Motion

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