Dislocated your shoulder? Dr Sean Leo is an orthopaedic surgeon that provides urgent care for shoulder dislocations and treats chronic instability to prevent future dislocations and restore joint security.
A shoulder dislocation is a severe injury where the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) is forced completely out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). This often damages the ligaments (labrum) that hold the joint in place, leading to a high risk of repeat dislocations (instability). It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
A shoulder dislocation usually causes sudden, intense pain and a visible deformity or “bump” where the joint has shifted out of place. Movement becomes very limited, and swelling and bruising often develop quickly. Some people also experience numbness or tingling in the arm or hand, which may indicate nerve involvement.
Recovery from surgery involves a short period of arm sling protection followed by a guided physiotherapy protocol to ensure the shoulder heals properly without losing its range of motion.
