Shoulder instability is a condition characterized by the abnormal movement of the shoulder joint due to the separation of the humeral head from the glenoid. This can occur when the structures that support and stabilize the shoulder, from the ligaments to the labrum and capsule, become damaged from tearing or detachment.
There are surgical solutions to stabilize the shoulder joint. In this article, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of shoulder instability and the different techniques orthopedic surgeons use for shoulder joint stabilization.
Causes of Shoulder Instability
The most common causes of shoulder instability are repetitive use from sports and accidents that result in the shoulder joint being subjected to a forceful impact. This is a common problem in individuals who play baseball or tennis. Shoulder dislocation can become a chronic issue.
Symptoms of Shoulder Instability
The primary symptom of shoulder instability is the sensation of the shoulder “giving out” or feeling unstable, because the shoulder joint is loose and is sliding around in the socket.
Other common symptoms include:
- Pain that increases with activity
- Decreased or limited range of motion
- A feeling of weakness in the arm
- A history of shoulder dislocation
Surgery for Shoulder Instability
Severe shoulder instability or recurrent shoulder instability may be resolved with arthroscopic surgery, which is a cutting-edge procedure performed through small incisions using a camera and specialized instruments.
An orthopedic surgeon can use one of the following techniques below to restore stability to the shoulder joint. Some important considerations include your activity level and the severity of your shoulder condition:
#1 Capsular Shift
The capsular shift is a surgical technique that aims to enhance shoulder stability by tightening the joint capsule. This procedure is often conducted using arthroscopy, a minimally invasive approach.
During a capsular shift, the surgeon strategically tightens the capsule and associated ligaments responsible for stabilizing the shoulder. This can be likened to a tailor tucking loose fabric by overlapping and sewing two parts together. By effectively tightening the ligaments, their role in maintaining stability is restored, promoting a more secure shoulder joint.
#2 Labral Repair
Labral repair, also known as Bankart repair, is a procedure commonly performed to address labrum tears in the shoulder joint using arthroscopy. In cases of small tears, debridement may be sufficient, involving the removal of frayed edges and loose fragments that can cause discomfort during movement.
For larger tears, suture anchors and heavy sutures are utilized to reattach the labrum to the socket, restoring stability. In instances where the socket bone is affected, an open procedure may be necessary, with the surgeon making a longer incision on the front of the shoulder to perform the repair before closing it using sutures and steri-strips.
#3 Remplissage Technique
The Remplissage technique is utilized when a dislocated shoulder leaves a dent in the ball portion of the joint, increasing the likelihood of future dislocations. In this arthroscopic procedure, part of the attachment of the rotator cuff is advanced into the dent at the back of the ball, effectively filling it in.
This approach significantly reduces the risk of recurrent dislocations and may be performed in conjunction with a Bankart repair for optimal stability and joint function.
#4 Latarjet Procedure
The Latarjet procedure is performed to address bone loss in the shoulder socket caused by recurrent dislocations. This open procedure involves taking a small piece of bone from another area of the shoulder and grafting it into the worn-away section of the socket, creating a bone graft. The graft is securely attached using screws, providing stability and support to the shoulder joint.
The Latarjet procedure is particularly useful for patients with complex shoulder problems or those at high risk for recurrent instability.
Shoulder Instability Treatment in Lutherville, Bel Air, Clarksville, Eldersburg, Pasadena, and Westminster, Maryland
Shoulder pain and an unstable shoulder joint are symptoms of an underlying problem and not necessarily a part of aging. If you are experiencing shoulder symptoms, seek treatment right away to avoid complications and ensure you heal properly. An experienced orthopedic surgeon can restore your shoulder function, so you can go about your life normally once again.
The highly skilled team of orthopedic surgeons at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder specialize in shoulder treatments. We provide expert treatment for shoulder conditions that cause pain and limited function. We use the latest surgical techniques that can give patients the best outcomes.
To schedule an appointment with a top shoulder doctor, call our office today at (410) 296-6232 or use our online form to schedule your visit. We look forward to providing you with the most advanced shoulder treatments in Maryland.
