Dislocated Shoulder, Instability

Often when this happens the lining of the shoulder joint is pulled off the bone, meaning dislocations can reoccur. This is called a Bankart tear.

Some patients have no further problems after a shoulder dislocation. But many suffer recurrent instability. Surgery to repair the tear can be beneficial in restoring shoulder stability.

To read more about shoulder stabilisation surgery visit our treatment page.

Related tests and scans

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a procedure in which a miniature telescope is inserted through a 2cm incision over a joint, for example the hip, knee, ankle or shoulder.

CT scan (or CAT scan)

Your doctor or healthcare professional may recommend a CT scan (also known as a CAT scan) because it is the best way for us to make an accurate diagnosis for certain conditions.

MRI scan

Your doctor or healthcare professional has recommended an MRI scan because it is the best way to make an accurate diagnosis of your condition.

X-ray

An X-ray machine produces a burst of high energy radiation which passes through the body to produce an image on a film or detector.

Related treatments and procedures

Shoulder Manipulation

Shoulder manipulation is a treatment for frozen shoulder, that consists of stretching and releasing the shoulder capsule.

Shoulder Stabilisation

If you have a dislocated shoulder, this operation repairs the lining of the damaged shoulder joint to make it stable again.

Shoulder decompression - key hole surgery

Shoulder decompression (or subacromial depression) is an operation to cleaning and repair damaged tendons around the upper arm and shoulder area.

Shoulder replacement

Your shoulder is a ball and socket joint. The top of your arm (humerus) fits into a socket (glenoid). Wear and tear or an injury can result in pain and restricted movement in the joint.

Shoulder surgery (rotator cuff repair)

The rotator cuff is formed of four tendons and the adjacent muscles that attach your arm to the top of your shoulder blade. Overuse or injury can cause tears in the tendons.

Shoulder instability