Shoulder Instability
There are many causes for instability, both from a trauma/injury or insidiously, and many ways it can present including:
- A feeling of weakness
- A clunking sensation
- A slipping or feeling as if it “pops out”
Many things can lead to instability at the shoulder joint, and there are many differing types of instability that can occur. The shoulder is a ball and socket joint, although a very shallow one, think of a golf ball sitting on a golf tea. This is why the shoulder is one of the most common joints in the body to partially or completely dislocate. Not all shoulder dislocations require surgery to repair, and not all surgeries “fix” an unstable shoulder. A good quality conservative management program designed by a physiotherapist has been shown to be equally or more effective as a surgical repair at 12 months follow up.
There are multiple ligaments, muscles, tendons, cartilages and bones themselves that play a role in stabilising the shoulder joint. If there is an injury to one of these structures, an acquired instabiilty can occur. But, you do not need to have a trauma to have a shoulder dislocation/instability. If you are naturally a more flexible or hypermobile person, you MAY have a higher chance of shoulder instability.
A physiotherapist can determine the extent of any instability by doing a complete assessment of the shoulder and its surrounding structures. From there, they will be able to design and teach a suitable exercise program to help return to the individual needs of the client.
A strong shoulder, is not necessarily a stable shoulder, and as such, the skills of a physiotherapist will help determine which muscles and structures need not just strengthening, but also stretching, activating or even relaxing certain muscles in order to help provide functional stability.
Following a dislocation the timeline for returning to previous function can be hugely variable depending on the demands required in the given sport or activities. Higher level athletes such as gymnasts, throwing athletes or AFL players can take up to 6-12 months to return, however others may return in as little as 1-3 months. Conversely a sedentary based individual, may have little to no impact on their day to day activities within the first 2-4 weeks.
If you have any concerns about potential shoulder instability, I would advise making a booking for a free initial assessment to determine the severity and make a suitable plan for your individual return to function.
Shoulder instability – exercises
Our physiotherapists can help assess the severity of your instability, and prescribe a suitable exercise based rehab program to get you back to your best. Theraband exercises are commonly used to strengthen the muscles which help stabilise the shoulder joint.
If your shoulder has been causing you concern, and you have felt any of the above, why not call and book in for a free initial assessment to work out the cause and a suitable treatment plan.