Shoulder Dislocation: Recovery and Sensation Issues

Dislocation of the left shoulder joint?

Hello Dr.
Lee: Last Thursday, I dislocated my left arm at the shoulder joint in Taitung.
I was taken directly to the emergency room, where a doctor attended to me immediately.
The diagnosis certificate stated dislocation and a fracture of the humerus (the doctor explained that there is a slight crack in the part that controls arm elevation and said it would heal on its own).
After that, I returned to Chi Mei Hospital in Tainan for further treatment, and the doctor there also said it was fine to go home.
However, since the day of the dislocation, I have not felt much sensation in the dislocated area of my left arm (I can hardly feel any touch).
Other than that area, everything else seems quite normal.
I would like to ask if this is normal, and if so, how long it might take to improve or what actions I should take to aid in recovery.
Thank you.

Shawn, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/01

Dr. Li Yongheng reply Orthopedics

Hello, if you experience a lack of sensation in your left shoulder after a dislocation and reduction, be cautious of potential brachial plexus injury.
Do not take this lightly; you must return for a follow-up appointment, and if necessary, a nerve conduction study should be performed.
If there is no nerve damage, you should immobilize the shoulder with a sling for three weeks from the date of injury, followed by rehabilitation therapy.
Recovery is expected to take about 2-3 months from the date of injury.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2017/11/01

More Info

Shoulder dislocation is a common injury that can lead to various complications, including sensory deficits and prolonged recovery times. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced a dislocation of the shoulder joint, accompanied by a possible fracture of the humerus. This type of injury can indeed affect the surrounding nerves and soft tissues, leading to symptoms such as numbness or loss of sensation in the affected area.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Numbness and Sensation Loss: The lack of sensation in the area around the dislocated shoulder can be attributed to nerve involvement. The brachial plexus, a network of nerves that innervates the arm, can be stretched or compressed during a dislocation. This can lead to temporary or, in some cases, longer-lasting sensory deficits. It is not uncommon for patients to experience numbness or tingling following a shoulder dislocation.

2. Recovery Timeline: Recovery from a shoulder dislocation can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, the initial healing phase can take several weeks, during which you may experience swelling, pain, and limited range of motion. The sensory changes you are experiencing might improve over time, but it can take several weeks to months for full sensation to return, depending on the extent of the nerve involvement.

3. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy is crucial for recovery. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that promote healing, improve range of motion, and strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint. This is particularly important to prevent future dislocations and to restore normal function.
4. Monitoring Symptoms: It is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice worsening numbness, weakness, or if you experience any new symptoms such as severe pain, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of complications such as nerve damage or issues with the healing process.

Recommended Actions
1. Follow-Up with Your Doctor: Since you have already seen a doctor after the dislocation, it is advisable to maintain regular follow-ups. If your symptoms persist or worsen, your doctor may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to assess the integrity of the shoulder joint and surrounding structures.

2. Engage in Rehabilitation: Start a rehabilitation program as soon as you are cleared by your physician. Focus on gentle range-of-motion exercises initially, gradually progressing to strengthening exercises as tolerated. This will help restore function and reduce the risk of future dislocations.

3. Pain Management: If you are experiencing pain, over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful. However, consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have other health conditions.

4. Avoid High-Risk Activities: During your recovery, avoid activities that could put excessive strain on your shoulder or increase the risk of re-dislocation. This includes heavy lifting, overhead activities, or sports that involve shoulder impact.

5. Consider Nerve Assessment: If numbness persists beyond a few weeks, a nerve conduction study may be warranted to evaluate the function of the nerves in your arm. This can help determine if there is any significant nerve damage that needs to be addressed.

Conclusion
In summary, while some degree of numbness and sensory loss can be expected following a shoulder dislocation, it is essential to monitor your recovery closely. Engaging in physical therapy, maintaining follow-up appointments, and being proactive about your rehabilitation will significantly contribute to your recovery. If you have any concerns about your symptoms or recovery process, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

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