Dr. Abhinav Singhal is a highly skilled Orthopedic Surgeon in Ghaziabad with over 10 years of experience, specializing in joint arthroscopy, joint replacement, and complex trauma care.
A recurrent shoulder dislocation happens when the shoulder dislocates more than once—typically after the initial injury causes structural damage. It’s most common in young, active individuals, especially athletes involved in contact or overhead sports.
When the shoulder dislocates the first time, structures like the labrum, ligaments, or joint capsule may get damaged. If not properly treated, this can lead to repeated instability.
The most common causes include :-
Bankart Lesion : Tear of the labrum from the glenoid rim
Hill-Sachs Lesion : Indentation fracture in the humeral head
Lax or stretched ligaments from the first dislocation
Poor rehab or early return to activity
Genetic hypermobility (e.g., Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome)
Repeated “slipping out” or subluxation of the shoulder
Sensation of instability or looseness
Pain or weakness with certain movements
Avoidance of overhead or outward arm motion
Visible deformity in severe dislocations
Physical exam: To test range of motion and signs of instability
X-rays: To check for fractures or bone loss
MRI/CT scan: To assess soft tissue damage (labrum, ligaments) or bony defects
Used after a first dislocation or in low-demand patients
Physical therapy to strengthen rotator cuff and scapular muscles
Bracing during sports
Activity modification
⚠️ High risk of recurrence in young athletes treated non-surgically (~70-90%)
Recommended for repeated dislocations or if structural damage is found
Bankart Repair : Reattaches torn labrum
Latarjet Procedure : Transfers part of the shoulder blade (coracoid) to stabilize the joint—used when there’s bone loss
Capsular Shift : Tightens a stretched joint capsule
Remplissage : Fills in Hill-Sachs lesion with rotator cuff to prevent engagement
F&Q'sA first-time dislocation might, but once it becomes recurrent, it usually needs surgery for long-term stability.
Yes—most athletes return to their sport post-surgery, but the timeline and success depend on the severity and type of surgery.
Ongoing instability
Cartilage damage or arthritis
Potential nerve damage
Worsening of bone loss and eventual need for more complex surgery
Not always—but younger patients, especially under 25, have high recurrence without it.