A subluxation is a partial dislocation of the shoulder joint. This can happen from a fall onto an outstretched arm or having enough force put through the shoulder to shift it out of correct alignment.

Symptoms

The shoulder will feel loose for a while after the incident. The shifting will also typically cause sharp pain at first and a dull ache later.

Diagnosis

Subluxation is typically diagnosed through the patients history of the incident. A clinical motion test may also reveal looseness in the joint.

Treatment

Treatment includes

• Ice – 20 minutes on / 20 minutes off
• Anti-inflammatory drugs such as advil
• Rest
• Exercises-  When the shoulder is healed it is a good idea to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles with internal / external rotation exercises
• A severe subluxation may even require surgical treatment to restore tightness in the shoulder joint.

Recovery

May take days or weeks depending on the severity of the incident; Surgical treatment may take six months to full recovery.