Shoulder injuries are common in sports, physical labor, and accidents, but two of the most misunderstood conditions are a dislocated shoulder and a torn labrum. While both can cause pain, weakness, and limited mobility, they are very different injuries that require different treatment approaches. Understanding how they differ is key to getting the right diagnosis and care. At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Donald W Pennington, DO, our board-certified surgeons specialize in orthopedic procedures in the Las Vegas area.
What Is a Dislocated Shoulder?
A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). This can happen from a fall, sports injury, or direct blow. Shoulder dislocations can be:
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Anterior: The most common type, where the humerus moves forward out of the socket.
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Posterior: Less common, often from seizures or electric shock.
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Inferior: Rare, with the arm forced downward.
Symptoms of a Dislocated Shoulder:
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Intense pain
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Visible deformity of the shoulder
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Inability to move the arm
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Swelling and bruising
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Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
What Is a Torn Labrum?
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines and stabilizes the shoulder socket. A torn labrum happens when this cartilage is damaged, often from repetitive motion, overuse, or trauma. Types include:
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SLAP Tear (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior): Common in throwing athletes.
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Bankart Tear: Often linked with shoulder dislocation.
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Posterior Labral Tear: Less common, often from backward force on the shoulder.
Symptoms of a Torn Labrum:
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Deep, aching pain in the shoulder
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Clicking, popping, or grinding sensation
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Weakness or instability
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Pain with overhead movements
Key Differences Between the Two
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Cause: Dislocations are usually from sudden trauma; labral tears can be from trauma or overuse.
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Symptoms: Dislocations cause immediate, severe pain and deformity; labral tears cause more subtle, chronic pain.
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Treatment: Dislocations require urgent repositioning of the joint; labral tears often need physical therapy or surgery for repair.
When One Can Cause the Other
A shoulder dislocation can cause a labral tear, especially a Bankart tear. In these cases, both issues need to be addressed to prevent recurrent instability.
Contact Us
If you have shoulder pain or instability, an accurate diagnosis is essential for proper treatment. Contact our orthopedic team today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation.
Contact Surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Pennington at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:
If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments,contact the office today click here.
Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada