Radiographs show superior displacement of the clavicle and complete dislocation of the joint with weights. Conservative treatment with a sling is appropriate, provided that the patient understands that permanent deformity may result. Patients usually return to normal function. Glenohumeral Dislocations Clinical features. The usual mechanism is forced abduction and external rotation.
Patients complain of severe pain and usually hold the arm in tightly against their body.
The shoulder appears flattened laterally and prominent anteriorly. The examiner must check associated injuries, including proximal humeral fractures, avulsion of the rotator cuff, and injuries to the adjacent neurovascular structures. Axillary nerve injury is most common and is associated with decreased active contraction of the deltoid muscle. The dislocation should be reduced as soon as possible. This is superior to 10 mg of IV morphine and 2 mg of midazolam.