- A sensation of looseness or instability of the shoulder with popping, snapping and pain is usually preceded by an injury where the shoulder may have dislocated.
- When there is looseness of the shoulder without injury, there is usually an element of generalised ligament laxity (double-jointedness) with or without rotator cuff involvement.
- Shoulder instability can be very disabling, even with occupational or day-to-day activities and it is often impossible to participate in sport or other recreational activities.
- A shoulder that dislocates (comes out of joint) on normal daily activities or during sport, requires a specialist’s attention.
- Failure to address instability may lead to irreversible shoulder joint damage.
- Dr Bothma will assess the nature of the shoulder instability as well as related factors that may complicate or contribute to the instability. He will discuss the findings and recommend treatment options comprehensively with you.
- Shoulder instability that does not respond to a strengthening program, usually requires surgical intervention.
