Shoulder Instability surgeries
What Is Shoulder Instability?
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint made up of the humeral head (ball) and the glenoid (socket) of the shoulder blade. Unlike the hip, the shoulder socket is very shallow, which allows for a wide range of motion but makes the joint more prone to instability.
Shoulder instability occurs when the humeral head slips partially (subluxation) or completely (dislocation) out of the glenoid socket. This can damage stabilizing structures such as the:
Causes of Shoulder Instability
- Traumatic injury : a fall, collision, or sports injury that forces the arm out of place
- Repetitive overhead motion: seen in throwing athletes or swimmers
- Genetic ligamentous laxity : naturally loose ligaments making the shoulder prone to slipping
- Previous dislocations : once instability starts, the risk of recurrence increases
When Is Surgery Recommended?
Not every patient with shoulder instability needs surgery. Non-surgical management, including physical therapy and strengthening exercises, is often tried first. Surgery may be recommended if:
Types of Shoulder Instability Surgeries
There are several surgical options, depending on the cause and severity of the instability:
Arthroscopic Bankart Repair
- Used when the labrum (the rim of cartilage around the socket) is torn.
Latarjet Procedure
- Performed when there is bone loss from the front of the shoulder socket.
Remplissage
- Performed in addition to Bankart repair if there is a Hill-Sachs lesion (indentation in the humeral head).
Open Stabilization Surgery
- In certain complex or revision cases, open surgery may provide stronger repairs compared to arthroscopy.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
- Outpatient surgery: most patients go home the same day.
- Immobilization – sling use for 3–6 weeks to protect the repair.
Rehabilitation phases:
- Phase 1 (0–6 weeks): Protect the repair, gentle passive range of motion.
- Phase 2 (6–12 weeks): Gradual active motion and light strengthening.
- Phase 3 (3–6 months): Progressive strengthening, sports-specific training.
- Phase 4 (6–9+ months): Return to contact sports or high-demand activities.
Full recovery depends on the procedure and patient compliance with rehab, but most people regain stability and return to their normal activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dislocations keep happening once I’ve had one?
The initial injury often stretches or tears the labrum and capsule, making it easier for the shoulder to slip again. This is why younger athletes often require surgery after just one or two dislocations.
Will my shoulder be as strong as before?
Most patients regain excellent strength and function. Some may notice mild limitations in extreme overhead motion, depending on the surgery performed.
How long before I can lift weights or return to sports?
Light weights are usually allowed after 3–4 months. Contact sports or competitive throwing typically resume at 6–9 months, once the repair is fully healed.
If you are struggling with shoulder instability or recurrent dislocations, I can help restore stability and function.