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Shoulder dislocation

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This is a common injury.

Usually the shoulder dislocates anteriorly. This is generally caused by a fall on the hand.

Posterior dislocations are often missed. This injury is not a complete dislocation but a fracture-subluxation. In contrast to the anterior dislocation this injury is generally caused by forced internal rotation of the abducted arm or by a direct blow on the front of the shoulder.

95% of shoulder dislocations are anterior (1).

Reference:

  • 1. Cutts S Prempeh P Drew S Anterior Shoulder Dislocation Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2009 January; 91(1): 2-7.

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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