Conditions & Diagnoses: A-Z

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Shoulder Instability

Definition:
The state of being unstable, or lacking stability in the shoulder. The abnormal tendency of a joint to subluxate or dislocate with normal activities and stresses.
Symptoms:
  • Pain caused by shoulder injury
  • Repeated shoulder dislocations
  • Repeated instances of the shoulder giving out
  • A persistent sensation of the shoulder feeling loose, slipping in and out of the joint, or just "hanging there"
Causes:
  • Shoulder dislocation
  • Repetitive muscle strain
  • Multidirectional instability
Treatment:
  • Shoulder stabilization exercises
  • Rotator cuff strengthening
  • Upper extremity strengthening
  • Posture program
  • Possible surgical intervention