Shoulder Subluxation Symptoms and Treatment Options
What Is a Shoulder Subluxation?
A shoulder subluxation is a type of shoulder instability that occurs when the humeral head partially slips out of the shoulder socket. This uncomfortable and often painful injury can make everyday activities more difficult and lead to further damage if not treated properly.
To better understand shoulder subluxation, let us review your arm’s anatomy.
Your arm contains three bones. The radius and the ulna are the two forearm bones. The humerus is the upper arm bone, stretching from your elbow and shoulder.
The ball at the top of the humerus (the humeral head) is part of your shoulder joint. It is covered by the rotator cuff tendons, which help you lift and rotate your arm. The humeral head rests in a shallow socket in the shoulder blade (the scapula), called the glenoid fossa.
Because the head is usually larger than the glenoid fossa, it is supported by three ligaments called the glenohumeral ligaments. This ball-and-socket arrangement is known as the glenohumeral joint. It is one of four joints in the shoulder complex.
Subluxation vs Dislocation
Whether or not you think you have completely dislocated your shoulder joint, if you are experiencing the symptoms we will discuss next, you should seek medical attention to prevent further injury to or instability of the joint. Diagnosis through such imaging tests as X-rays or MRIs will confirm the nature and extent of your injury.
| Feature | Shoulder Subluxation | Shoulder Dislocation |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Partial loss of contact between the humeral head and the shoulder socket (glenoid). | Complete loss of contact between the humeral head and the shoulder socket. |
| Joint Position | Bone surfaces are still partially aligned. | Bone surfaces are fully displaced from their normal position. |
| Onset | May occur gradually (e.g., due to weakness or stroke) or from a milder trauma. | Usually occurs suddenly after a significant trauma or forceful movement. |
| Pain Level | Often painful or uncomfortable, but may be less intense than a dislocation. | Typically severe, sharp pain with marked inability to move the shoulder. |
| Appearance | Shoulder may look slightly “dropped” or out of place, but deformity is subtle. | Visible deformity is common; shoulder contour often looks obviously altered. |
| Range of Motion | Reduced or unstable, but some movement is usually possible. | Movement is extremely limited and very painful until the joint is reduced. |
| Soft Tissue Damage | May stretch ligaments, capsule, and muscles; damage is often less extensive. | Frequently associated with significant ligament, labrum, and capsule injury. |
| Risk of Recurrence | Can recur, especially if underlying instability or weakness is not treated. | High risk of repeat dislocations, particularly in younger and active patients. |
| Common Causes | Muscle weakness (e.g., post-stroke), repetitive strain, minor trauma, lax ligaments. | Sports injuries, falls, direct blows, or high-energy trauma. |
| Management | Strengthening, neuromuscular re-education, bracing or slings, addressing underlying cause. | Urgent reduction by a trained professional, followed by immobilization and rehab. |
| Surgical Need | Less commonly needed; considered if conservative care fails or instability is severe. | More likely to require surgery in recurrent cases or when structures are badly damaged. |
| Urgency | Needs prompt assessment, but is often not a medical emergency. | Usually an emergency that requires immediate medical attention. |
What Are the Symptoms of Subluxation?
Symptoms of shoulder subluxation range from mild to severe. They can include:
- Shoulder pain
- Tenderness
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm
- Swelling and bruising
- Popping or clicking sounds
- A grinding feeling when you move your shoulder, or feeling it “gives way”
- Limited range of movement in your shoulder
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How Does Shoulder Subluxation Happen?
Weak rotator cuff muscles, a rotator cuff injury, or loose glenohumeral ligaments generally cause subluxations. Overuse and repetitive movements can also cause them.
Common athletic injuries leading to shoulder subluxation include falling on an outstretched arm, throwing a ball, and taking a direct blow to the shoulder during such contact sports as football and rugby.
It is important for athletes to take precautions to prevent subluxations from occurring—wearing the right protective gear, using proper throwing techniques, and following exercise regimens that help maintain strong and stable shoulders.
What Are Common Complications of Shoulder Subluxation?
Although shoulder subluxations often heal without major complications, it is important to be aware of possible risks associated with the injury. Without proper treatment, subluxations can lead to further instability and discomfort in the joint. In some cases, they can also cause chronic pain or impair mobility.
What Are the Treatments for Subluxation?
- Shoulder subluxations are often managed with a mix of rest and guided physical therapy.
- Physical therapists may use stretching, strengthening, and flexibility exercises to support healing of the shoulder joint and reinforce the surrounding muscles.
- In some situations, the shoulder may need to be immobilized with a sling or brace to provide sufficient rest and prevent additional injury.
- Doctors might also recommend pain-relief options, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- If conservative treatment does not relieve symptoms or restore stability, a physician may suggest surgical intervention.
- Surgical treatment is commonly performed arthroscopically, using small instruments inserted through tiny incisions to access the joint.
- The primary aim of surgery is to improve shoulder stability and function by tightening or repairing injured ligaments and tendons, a process sometimes referred to as closed reduction.
The time it takes to recover from a closed reduction and resume your daily activities will vary depending on the type and severity of injury. Full recovery can take months or years.
EmergeOrtho—Foothills Region is committed to developing specifically tailored treatment plans for your shoulder injury to help you get back to your active lifestyle. To make your appointment, call us at (828) 459-OUCH or schedule an appointment by clicking here now.
Shoulder Subluxation FAQ
How long does a shoulder subluxation take to heal?
Recovery time for a shoulder subluxation varies, but many people begin to feel significantly better within 4 to 6 weeks with proper rest, immobilization, and physical therapy.
Full healing, including regaining strength, stability, and range of motion, can take 3 to 4 months or longer, especially if the injury was severe or if there is associated soft tissue damage. Athletes and individuals returning to high-demand activities may need additional time and rehabilitation.
Your exact healing timeline depends on factors such as age, overall health, the extent of the injury, and how closely you follow your rehabilitation program. A healthcare professional or physical therapist can give you a more personalized estimate based on your specific condition.
Can a Shoulder Subluxation Heal by Itself Without a Doctor?
A shoulder subluxation may seem to improve on its own over time, but relying on self-healing without medical evaluation is risky. While pain and swelling might decrease with rest, the underlying joint instability often remains and can lead to repeated subluxations, full dislocations, or long-term damage to cartilage, ligaments, and surrounding structures.
In many cases, professional assessment is needed to:
- Confirm the diagnosis and rule out fractures or soft tissue tears
- Ensure the joint is properly aligned
- Provide a targeted rehabilitation plan to strengthen stabilizing muscles
- Reduce the risk of chronic instability and future injuries
Ignoring a shoulder subluxation or treating it only with rest and home care can result in ongoing pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. Even if symptoms seem mild, it is strongly recommended to consult a healthcare professional—such as a sports medicine doctor, orthopedic specialist, or physical therapist—to guide safe recovery and protect long-term shoulder function.
Shoulder Subluxation Exercises to Avoid
When managing shoulder subluxation, certain movements can increase instability or aggravate pain. In general, avoid:
- Heavy overhead presses (e.g., military press, heavy shoulder press)
- Deep bench presses that bring the elbows far below the torso
- Sudden, jerking motions such as kipping pull-ups or fast overhead throws
- Heavy upright rows that place the shoulder in internal rotation and elevation
- Exercises that cause the shoulder to feel like it is “slipping” or moving out of place
Always consult a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist before starting or modifying an exercise routine, as they can recommend safe alternatives tailored to your specific condition.
