Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder joint becomes loose, often due to shoulder injuries, repetitive strain, or a sports-related injury. This can lead to dislocations, subluxations (partial dislocations), and persistent shoulder pain or weakness. If left untreated, instability can significantly impact shoulder function, limit range of motion, affect performance, and increase pain. For accurate diagnosis, it’s important to see a shoulder specialist who understands both sports medicine and chronic shoulder conditions to get you on the road to recovery.
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First-time shoulder dislocations often cause labral tears, such as a Bankart lesion and HAGL lesions, along with capsular stretching, increasing the risk of recurrent shoulder instability.
In patients over 40, shoulder dislocations frequently involve rotator cuff tears, which can contribute to persistent weakness and dysfunction, and necessitate rotator cuff surgery.
Bony injuries, such as Hill-Sachs disease (lesions on the humeral head) or bony Bankart lesions (on the glenoid), can occur during dislocation events in all age groups.
Multiple shoulder instability episodes can cause progressive glenoid and humeral head bone loss, making future stabilization more challenging and potentially requiring bone grafting procedures during shoulder surgery.
Management of first-time shoulder dislocations has traditionally favored conservative treatment, such as immobilization and physical therapy. However, recent studies suggest that early surgical stabilization may be beneficial for high-risk individuals, including young patients, contact athletes, and laborers. A systematic review and meta-analysis by Belk et al. (2022) found that surgical stabilization for first-time anterior shoulder dislocation significantly reduced recurrent instability (6.3% vs. 46.6%, P < .00001) and the need for subsequent surgery (4.0% vs. 30.8%, P < .00001) compared to nonoperative treatment. Young active males seem to be at the highest risk and benefit the most from early surgical intervention. In the elderly, recurrent shoulder stability is less common, but patients may suffer rotator cuff tears. Early evaluation and discussion with an orthopedic surgeon is usually recommended to determine the best treatment plan.
Best Orthopedic Doctor Near Me for Shoulder Instability
Strengthening the rotator cuff and scapular muscles to improve shoulder stability
Adjusting movements and avoiding positions that provoke shoulder instability
Providing external support for athletes or individuals at risk of shoulder dislocation
Repairs torn labrum and capsule using minimally invasive arthroscopy technique for shoulder surgery
Arthroscopic surgery to fill in the bone defect in the humerus (i.e., Hill-Sachs lesion)
Reserved for advanced cases when bone of the glenoid has been worn away. Most commonly Latarjet procedure (coracoid transfer), but also distal tibia allograft
As a dual fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder conditions, Dr. Krueger offers advanced, personalized treatment options for shoulder instability. Whether you’re an athlete looking to return to peak performance or someone struggling with persistent pain and dysfunction, he has experience and expertise to help you regain stability and confidence in your shoulder.
If you’re searching for a joint pain specialist in St. Louis, shoulder orthopedic surgeon, or orthopedic doctor who specializes in surgical and non-surgical shoulder pain treatment near me, a consultation can get you started on the road to recovery.
If you’re experiencing shoulder instability, don’t wait to seek expert care. Contact my office today to schedule a consultation and discuss treatment options.
