Shoulder instability typically happens when the lining of the shoulder joint, ligaments, or labrum are stretched, ripped, or detached, allowing the ball of the shoulder joint to move either all the way or partially out of its socket. This can cause a feeling of the shoulder giving out during movement, swelling, or limited mobility. There are both surgical and non-surgical treatment options available, both of which your surgeon will discuss with you during your consultation. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by established board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of shoulder instability to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
How is shoulder instability diagnosed?
During your consultation, your surgeon will ask you questions about your physical medical history as well as your symptoms. You will have a physical examination that will also help your surgeon determine the severity of your shoulder instability. X-rays or other imaging tests may be ordered to rule out the possibility of other injuries or conditions.
Symptoms of Shoulder Instability
Indications of shoulder instability include the feeling of the shoulder giving out. This feeling occurs when the ball of the shoulder comes out of the socket, may cause pain, and most commonly occurs when doing motions such as throwing or reaching. Other symptoms include limited mobility of the arm and shoulder, swelling and bruising.
Treatment
Non-surgical treatment of shoulder instability usually involves putting the arm into a sling and immobilizing it until the pain and swelling have subsided. Exercise and physical therapy is then used to strengthen the arm. Cold compressions and pain medications may be recommended to help ease the pain until the shoulder is better. Patients who do not opt for surgery typically have to do activity modification to avoid re-injury of the arm. Those who wish to continue playing sports or being active, or continue to suffer from discomfort, are recommended to have surgery. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by established board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of shoulder instability to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:
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Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada