Campus Construction Update

Starting September 14, we’re closing the Menino building lobby entrance. This, along with the ongoing Yawkey building entrance closure, will help us bring you an even better campus experience that matches the exceptional care you've come to expect. Please enter the Menino and Yawkey buildings through the Moakley building, and make sure to leave extra time to get to your appointment. Thank you for your patience. 

Click here to learn more about our campus redesign. 

When a shoulder dislocates, it means the top of the upper arm bone has either partially or fully slipped out of the joint socket. Because the shoulder joint moves in all directions, it is unstable and prone to dislocation. Injury is usually the cause of dislocation. Swelling, pain, numbness, weakness, bruising, and other symptoms may occur, especially if the shoulder dislocation causes a ligament or tendon to tear or damages a nerve. Once a shoulder dislocates, chances are good it will do so again.

Diagnosing Shoulder Dislocations

Physical Exam

Your physician will ask you a series of questions and is likely to do a physical exam. The physical exam will include examining any specific areas of concern, especially as they relate to the reason for your visit to the office.

X-Rays

A form of electromagnetic radiation with very high frequency and energy. X-rays are used to examine and make images of things such as the bones and organs inside the body.

Treatment for a Disloacted Shoulder

Closed Reduction (for Shoulder Dislocation)

Process by which the doctor places the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) back into the joint socket. Severe pain from a dislocated shoulder stops almost immediately once the shoulder joint is back in place.

Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

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Orthopedic Surgery

The Department of Orthopedic Surgery offers orthopedic services from head to toe for acute injuries, as well as chronic conditions of the musculoskeletal system, to help you get b…
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Shoulder Surgery

Proper functioning of the shoulder (parts of the body that are also called the "upper extremities") – is necessary for daily activities. Writing, grabbing, driving, or lifting are…
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Physical and Occupational Therapy

Recovering from an injury or learning to live with a physical disability or limitation can be challenging. Physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) can help patients re…
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Pediatric Sports Medicine Clinic

BMC’s Pediatric Sports Medicine Clinic provides care specifically tailored to children with sports-related injuries. As one of the few pediatric sports medicine programs in Boston…