Shoulder joint instability

With shoulder joint instability, the shoulder joint is too loose and can slip out of its normal position. This can be caused by accidents, repetitive strain during sport or congenital factors. Early treatment is important to avoid persistent discomfort and restrictions.

Shoulder joint instability is less common in children and adolescents than in adults, but occurs more frequently in young people who are active in sports.

The most common causes include

• Acute injuries such as falls or dislocations
• Repeated overloading during swimming or throwing sports
• Congenital looseness of the ligaments and joint capsules

Look out for the following signs in your child:

• Pain with certain arm movements
• Feeling of insecurity in the shoulder area
• One-off or recurring dislocations
• Feeling of weakness or limited mobility in the arm

To make an accurate diagnosis, we carry out a comprehensive physical examination and imaging procedures such as X-ray or MRI.

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the instability:

Conservative therapy: In milder cases, we rely on targeted physiotherapy to strengthen the shoulder-stabilising muscles. Specialised exercises improve stability, coordination and movement control of the shoulder joint.

Surgical therapy: Surgery may be necessary for severe or recurring instabilities. This involves tightening loose joint structures or repairing damaged ligaments and capsular structures. After the operation, careful rehabilitation is crucial for a good result.

The prognosis for shoulder joint instability depends on the severity of the instability, the underlying cause and the timing of treatment. With early and adequate treatment, a significant improvement in function can be achieved in many cases. Conservative measures show good results in mild cases, while surgical procedures may be necessary in the case of recurrent instability or structural damage. Consistent implementation of the rehabilitation programme and preventive measures to avoid recurrences are crucial for long-term results.