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HomeHistoryImportance of history Physical examination of the dislocated shoulderRadiographic evaluation

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Clinical Presentation of Glenohumeral Instability.

Last updated Tuesday, February 01, 2005

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History

The history should define the mechanism of the injury, including the position of the arm, the amount of applied force, and the point of force application. (Protzman, 1980; Rowe and Zarins, 1981; Rowe and Zarins, 1982)

Importance of history

Injury with the arm in extension, abduction, and external rotation favors anterior dislocation. Electroshock, seizures, or a fall on the flexed and adducted arm are commonly associated with posterior dislocation. If the instability is recurrent, the history defines the initial injury, the position or action which results in instability, how long the shoulder stays "out," whether radiographs are available with the shoulder out of joint, and what means have been necessary to reduce the shoulder. The history also solicits evidence of neurological or rotator cuff problems after previous episodes of shoulder instability. Previous treatment for the recurrent instability as well as the effectiveness of this treatment are documented.

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