Shoulder Instability
Shoulder Instability: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Shoulder instability occurs when the structures that keep your shoulder joint securely in place become stretched, torn, or weakened, leading to partial or complete dislocation of the joint. This condition can significantly impact your comfort, strength, and ability to carry out daily activities or participate in sports.
Dr Ben McGrath has extensive experience in diagnosing and managing shoulder instability, offering both non-operative and surgical treatment options tailored to your individual needs.
Understanding Shoulder Instability
Your shoulder is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joint made up of the humeral head (the ball) and the glenoid (the socket). Stability is maintained by a combination of ligaments, tendons, muscles, and the labrum (a ring of cartilage). When these supporting structures are damaged—often due to trauma or repetitive strain—the shoulder may become unstable and more prone to slipping or dislocating.
Common Causes of Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability can develop due to:
Trauma or Injury: A fall or direct blow may cause the shoulder to dislocate, damaging the labrum or ligaments.
Repetitive Overhead Movements: Common in athletes such as swimmers, throwers, or gymnasts.
Hyperlaxity: Some individuals naturally have looser ligaments, increasing the risk of instability.
Symptoms of Shoulder Instability
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and type of instability, but may include:
A feeling of the shoulder being loose or “slipping out”
Pain with certain movements, particularly overhead or behind the back
Recurrent dislocations or subluxations (partial dislocations)
Weakness or reduced strength
Swelling, clicking, or catching within the joint
Diagnosing Shoulder Instability
During your consultation, Dr McGrath will:
Take a detailed history of your symptoms and any previous injuries
Perform a physical examination to assess the joint’s stability and range of motion
May recommend imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to evaluate the soft tissues, labrum, and bone structure
Non-Surgical Treatments for Shoulder Instability
For some patients, shoulder instability can be managed without surgery. Non-operative treatments may include:
Physiotherapy to strengthen the rotator cuff and stabilising muscles
Activity modification to avoid positions that provoke instability
Anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and inflammation
These approaches may be particularly suitable for first-time dislocations or individuals with less severe symptoms.
When Surgery May Be Recommended
Surgery may be considered if:
You experience recurrent dislocations or subluxations
There is significant damage to the labrum or ligaments
Non-surgical treatment has not provided sufficient relief
You are an athlete or active individual looking to return to sport safely
Surgical Options for Shoulder Instability
Dr McGrath offers a range of surgical procedures depending on the type and severity of your instability, including:
Arthroscopic Labral Repair (Bankart Repair): Reattaches the torn labrum to restore joint stability
Capsular Shift or Plication: Tightens the shoulder capsule to reduce looseness
Latarjet Procedure: Transfers a small piece of bone to the front of the shoulder socket to prevent future dislocations in cases of bone loss
Remplissage: A procedure to fill defects in the humeral head that may contribute to instability
Surgical treatment is tailored to your anatomy, activity level, and the nature of the injury.
Recovery timelines can vary depending on the type of procedure performed.
In general:
You may need to wear a sling for several weeks post-surgery
Physiotherapy begins early to regain movement and build strength
Return to sport or high-level activity is usually possible within 4–6 months
Dr McGrath and his team will guide you through a structured rehabilitation plan and monitor your recovery progress closely.
FAQs About Shoulder Instability
Dislocation is when the ball comes completely out of the socket. Shoulder instability refers to a tendency for the joint to move too far or dislocate repeatedly, often due to weakened or damaged supporting structures.
Yes, in some cases. Physiotherapy and non-surgical management can strengthen supporting muscles and improve stability, especially in first-time or less severe cases.
Yes. Repetitive overhead or high-impact movements can stretch or tear the stabilising structures, making athletes more prone to instability.
If you’ve had multiple dislocations, have persistent pain or weakness, or wish to return to high-demand sports or physical work, surgical treatment may be considered. Dr McGrath will assess your individual situation and discuss the most appropriate options.
Ongoing instability can lead to further damage to the labrum or cartilage, increasing the risk of arthritis or long-term loss of function. Early assessment and management can help prevent further complications.
Many patients experience significant improvements in shoulder stability and function after surgery, particularly with structured rehabilitation. However, outcomes can vary, and Dr McGrath will discuss realistic expectations with you.