Shoulder Instability Repair Surgery
The bones of the shoulder are held in place with various ligaments, tendons and cartilage, allowing for movement while still retaining the joint structure. When any of these components are damaged, it can result in a loosened joint structure. Shoulder joint instability can result in frequent subluxation, dislocation or other symptoms. At Jonathan L. Glashow, MD orthopedic surgery center, we offer shoulder instability repair surgery at our facility in Miami, FL.
What Causes Shoulder Instability?
There are many possible causes of shoulder instability. Injuries such as sprains or strains in the shoulder can result in stretched ligaments or tendons, allowing for increased movement of the humerus head in the socket of the shoulder. A previous dislocation injury can result in damaged tissue that allows the bones to shift easily. Labrum or cartilage damage, as well as changes to the bones within the joint can result in shoulder instability. Repetitive use of the shoulder joint can result in a loose capsule – this is common in athletes who perform throwing or overhead motions like baseball or tennis players. Contact sports like football and rugby can also result in repetitive damage to the shoulder components.
Symptoms of Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability situations are common among athletes. When the shoulder joint is no longer stable, it can result in pain and dysfunction, as well as risks for frequent dislocations and degenerative damage from osteoarthritis. Some of the symptoms of an unstable shoulder joint include:
- Sensation of slipping within the joint
- Arm and shoulder weakness
- Ongoing shoulder pain
- Numbness radiating down the arm
- Subluxation or dislocation
When there are symptoms of shoulder instability, conservative treatments may include physical therapy to strengthen the tendons and ligaments. If non-surgical treatments are unsuccessful, surgery may be required. Most shoulder instability repairs can be performed through arthroscopy, which is a minimally invasive “keyhole” surgery with small incisions and instruments.
If you have symptoms of shoulder instability and need treatment, contact our team at Jonathan L. Glashow, MD orthopedic surgery and sports injury center. Call our clinic in the Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach, FL, area to schedule an appointment with one of our shoulder specialists.
