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Dislocated Shoulder
A dislocated shoulder is when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket. It causes sudden, severe pain and an inability to move the arm, and needs prompt care.
Causes & risk factors
- A fall on an outstretched arm
- A direct blow during sport or accident
- Sudden forceful twisting of the arm
- Previous dislocation (recurrent instability)
- Loose or lax joints
Common symptoms
- Sudden, severe shoulder pain
- A visibly out-of-place or square shoulder
- Inability to move the arm
- Swelling and bruising
- Numbness or tingling in the arm
Tests & diagnosis
Treatment & management
- Prompt reduction (putting the joint back) by a doctor
- A sling to rest the shoulder
- Pain relief as advised
- Physiotherapy to restore strength and stability
- Surgery for recurrent dislocations
When to see a doctor urgently
- A shoulder that looks out of place after injury (seek urgent care)
- Numbness, tingling or a cold, pale arm
- Inability to move the arm
- Repeated dislocations
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about dislocated shoulder. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Should I try to put my shoulder back myself?
No. Attempting to force it back can damage nerves, blood vessels and bone. Go to a hospital where it can be done safely.
Will my shoulder dislocate again?
Younger people and those with lax joints have a higher chance of recurrence. Physiotherapy, and sometimes surgery, reduces this risk.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.