Complications of a shoulder dislocation
A shoulder dislocation can result in several unwanted complications. A frequent event that can result in a shoulder dislocation is a renewed dislocation of the shoulder. Since the ligaments and muscles have become virtually worn out or weakened, they can no longer hold the bone stable and cannot secure it in its basic position.
The effects of force or movements that previously caused no problems can already lead to a dislocation. The great danger here is that the risk of a new dislocation increases with the number of dislocations, with the result that the patient is in a downward spiral that will become deeper and deeper unless something is done about it. A shoulder dislocation can also damage the surrounding tissue.
Cartilage and/or bone damage are known complications that can occur. Since nerves and vessels also run in the shoulder area, they can be damaged during dislocation. This results in movement and sensitivity disorders in the shoulder and upper arm.
The joint lip, the so-called “labrum glenoidale”, are bulge-like ligaments around the joint socket. They serve to mechanically hold the head of the humerus in the joint socket. The labrum tear is a possible complication that can occur in the case of a shoulder dislocation.
The ligaments are not torn, but detach from the edge of the socket. Of course, this only happens when a very strong force is applied. Because the labrum is detached, it loses its stabilizing effect. The treatment of a labrum tear involves reattaching it to the edge of the glenoid cavity in an operation to restore the shoulder joint to its original stability.
Total healing time
A shoulder dislocation does not normally heal on its own and should therefore always be repositioned by a doctor. As a rule, the shoulder must be protected for 4-6 weeks. From this period onwards, a slow mobilization begins.
It is estimated that after 7 weeks, the shoulder can be used again without complaints and fully functional.It should be noted, however, that heavy loads on the shoulder as they occur during sport must not be performed after 7 weeks, as there is an increased risk of dislocation. However, the time required for healing is highly dependent on the severity of the dislocation. During this time, careful exercise and physiotherapy can already be started in order to prevent the dislocation of the musculature and to minimize the risk of a renewed dislocation.
After a surgical dislocation, regeneration can take much longer. After a shoulder dislocation, it is strongly recommended not to do any sports for up to six months after the event. In order to ensure complete healing, it is essential to follow this guideline, as the risk of a renewed dislocation is far too high.
Since every shoulder dislocation is individual, the doctor has the final say in each case. It is quite possible that he will allow you to be more active in sports. Of course, it also depends on the type of sport that is practiced.
