More often the subluxation episodes cause pain or a feeling of numbness in the arm. Diagnosis depends on the history and physical examination by a shoulder expert. Cases of complete dislocation are easier to diagnose. Typically the patient will have had to go to an emergency room to have the shoulder reduced, and an x-ray will be taken which confirms the shoulder having come out of socket. These patients complain primarily of instability, particularly with the arm in the overhead position.
Treatment depends on the severity of the instability and the age of the patient.
The younger the patient, the more likely the shoulder will continue to redislocate. Repeated dislocations can severely limit activities and are thought to lead to possible degeneration of the joint. Studies have shown that immobilization and strengthening have minimal influence on the prognosis. The only way to predictably limit the risk of recurrent dislocation is surgical. Current recommendations are to repair the torn ligaments for recurrent dislocations, and to consider surgery even for the first time dislocation in the very young athletic population.