Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder Information

HOW IS SHOULDER INSTABILITY DIAGNOSED?

The diagnosis of this condition is largely based on the history provided by the patient.

X-rays taken at the time of a dislocation make a definite diagnosis.

The degree of shoulder looseness or laxity of the shoulder joint can also be assessed by specific tests during the examination . However the shoulder may be near normal. Remember that the muscles play an important role in the stability of the shoulder and it is sometimes difficult to test the ligaments alone if you are awake and reflexly tightening these muscles.

Repeat X-rays performed some time after the initial dislocation are usually done to see if any damage to the bones of the joint have occurred, called a bony Bankart and Hill-sacks lesion

Additional tests such as a magnetic resonance imaging scan (MRI) with a dye (arthrogram) or a CT (computed tomography) scan are occasionally done to further evaluate the bones and tissues of the shoulder joint. However, these scans are not always required in all patients with instability.

In some cases where the diagnosis is in question, special tests such as examining the shoulder while you are under general anesthesia, and arthroscopy may be suggested. This will allow your doctor to test the ligaments of the shoulder while you are asleep and the muscles around the shoulder are paralysed.

Shoulder Instability Home Page	Shoulder Instability -diagnosis
Treatment of Initial Dislocation	When would I need an operation
Shoulder Instability Reconstruction - how it is performed	Shoulder Instability - Rehabilitation after surgery
The risks of Surgery	Shoulder Instability Links