How is shoulder instability evaluated?
The first step is a thorough evaluation by your orthopedic surgeon to understand the nature of the instability. In most instability cases, the ball slips out of the socket to the front (anterior dislocation). Sometimes the dislocation is out the back (posterior). It is important to understand the direction so the correct treatment is carried out. Next, any bone injury needs to be identified. Your doctor may obtain special imaging studies (MRI, CT scan) to clarify this issue. Finally, an understanding of the activity and athletic demands of the patient is important. For instance, collision athletes (football or rugby) have a much higher incidence or recurring dislocations than noncontact athletes.
