Shoulder instability is a common condition that can leave you unable to perform normal daily tasks. Learning the signs of shoulder instability empowers you to take action in the earliest possible stages, when treatment is often most effective.
Kristofer J. Jones, MD, has helped many residents of the greater Los Angeles, California, area find lasting relief from shoulder instability. We’re here today to discuss the signs of this condition and what can be done to treat it.
Your shoulder is among the largest joints in your body and performs a wide variety of tasks throughout each day. It’s a “ball and socket” type of joint, where the head of your upper arm bone meets the socket of your shoulder blade.
When these two sections of bone become partially or fully separated, the structural integrity of the shoulder is compromised. This instability can allow the components of the joint to move in abnormal ways, including moving completely out of the ball and socket alignment.
One of the most common signs of shoulder instability is the feeling that your shoulder has “given way.”
This can feel like your shoulder all of a sudden can't handle normal movement or strain when you’re lifting or holding something. This usually occurs when you’re performing specific movements, and you might not feel anything abnormal otherwise.
Additional signs of shoulder instability include:
If you notice these changes, don’t hesitate to schedule a diagnostic exam.
If Dr. Jones determines that you’re dealing with shoulder instability, there are several possible treatment paths to choose from. You’ll discuss all available options to help you make the treatment decision that’s best for you.
If the joint dislocation is minimal, you may only need a period of rest to give your body a chance to heal. Cold packs can reduce swelling and discomfort. Keeping the joint active from time to time is important to assist in healing. Over-the-counter pain medication may be all you need to address discomfort.
Physical therapy can also help by keeping the joint mobile during the healing process. Physical therapy also helps develop and strengthen the muscles that support your shoulder, reducing your risk of future instability or damage.
More serious joint damage may require a more in-depth treatment path. Surgical intervention may be needed to repair damaged joint components and restore normal shoulder function. Physical therapy is usually part of the recovery process.
If you encounter any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to take action. Allowing shoulder instability to continue can lead to more serious joint damage.
Schedule a visit with Kristopher J. Jones, MD, to determine the source of your symptoms and explore treatment options. If surgery is necessary, an arthroscopic procedure might be possible.
Book your visit in just moments using the online scheduling tool, or give our office a call to check appointment availability. We’re happy to help you find a time that works with your busy schedule and gets you on a path toward enhanced shoulder function.
