Dislocation vs. Separation

Major differences exist between shoulder separation and shoulder dislocation although they are often confused. It is important to understand those differences because the management, treatment, and rehabilitation of each injury vary.

A shoulder injury is typically associated with a sudden or traumatic event such as a sports-related injury or fall. As a result, shoulder separation or dislocation is common. However, the difference between the two begins with the location of the injury in the shoulder.

Shoulder separation is an injury to the ligament between the shoulder blade and the collar bone. Whereas shoulder dislocation occurs when the top of the arm bone loses contact with the socket of the shoulder blade. Both are extremely painful at the time of injury and should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately. Other symptoms for each injury include the following:

Shoulder Separation:

• Shoulder pain
• Sizeable bump over injury site
• Swelling or bruising

Shoulder Dislocation:

• Shoulder pain
• Arm positioned slightly away from the body with the forearm turned outward
• Loss of the rounded contour of the deltoid muscle

The treatment options for shoulder separation and dislocation differ as well. Shoulder separation is graded on the severity of the injury and the position of displaced bone. In almost all cases, shoulder separation is treated using conservative treatment options such as icing the injury, anti-inflammatory medications, and rest. In rare cases when shoulder separation is more severe, shoulder surgery may be considered.

Shoulder dislocation requires the shoulder to be put back into its normal position or reduced. The patient will receive anesthesia before an orthopedist manipulates the bones to slide back into position without causing further damage to the shoulder joint. Ligaments within the shoulder are torn, therefore the shoulder joint becomes less stable which may require a patient to undergo additional treatment. For those individuals that continue to have recurrent or repeat shoulder dislocations, surgery should be discussed.

Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron has expert orthopedists experienced in treating shoulder pain and injuries. To find out more about shoulder pain and the treatment options available, contact (810) 985-4900 to schedule an appointment.