Expertise provided by Dr. Amit Momaya, Orthopaedic Surgeon, UAB Medicine
Disclaimer: This expertise is shared based on a typical injury and not intended to diagnose or provide an outlook on Chloe Kim’s situation.
What is a dislocated shoulder?
This is when the ball (humeral head) falls out of the socket (glenoid).
How does this type of injury usually happen?
Typically, this occurs from a trauma, including falls or when an arm is pulled or rotated in an unusual way.
What are the immediate symptoms?
Pain, pop, and dysfunction of the arm
How is a shoulder dislocation diagnosed?
The injury is diagnosed via history and an exam. An MRI is usually obtained to further evaluate for any labrum tearing and bony injury to the socket and/or humeral head.
Does this injury require surgery?
Typically, surgery is recommended for young, contact athletes. Some can return to normal activity in a few weeks with rehab.
What does recovery typically look like?
Recovery from a non-operative standpoint usually looks like regaining early motion, activating the scapular stabilizer muscles, and function of the arm.
When can someone return to play or activity?
If treated without surgery, one can return as soon as a few weeks to full sport. When treated with surgery, return to play typically takes 5-6 months.
When should someone see a sports medicine specialist at UAB Medicine?
Anytime one dislocates his or her shoulder, they should seek immediate care in the emergency room and follow up with a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon soon after.