Shoulder Instability & Dislocation

Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder partially or completely slips out of place, leading to pain, weakness, apprehension, and recurrent dislocation events.

The shoulder has the greatest range of motion of any joint in the body, which also makes it more vulnerable to instability injuries.

What causes instability?

• Traumatic shoulder dislocation
• Labral tears (Bankart lesions)
• Bone loss
• Ligament stretching
• Repetitive overhead activity
• Generalized ligament laxity

Some patients experience a single instability event, while others develop recurrent dislocations or chronic instability.

Common symptoms

• Shoulder slipping out of place
• Apprehension with overhead motion
• Pain
• Weakness
• Clicking or catching
• Loss of confidence in the shoulder

Treatment options

• Physical therapy
• Strengthening and stabilization exercises
• Arthroscopic Bankart repair
• Latarjet procedure
• Bone reconstruction procedures

Treatment depends on age, activity level, instability severity, bone loss, and recurrence risk.

What this means for patients

Shoulder instability can significantly affect athletic performance and daily function. Modern stabilization procedures are designed to restore stability while preserving long-term shoulder motion and performance.