St. Louis Shoulder Dislocation Attorney

Dislocated Shoulder

A shoulder dislocation can be a very painful injury that is common in sports. It can also be seen with a life-threatening fall, high-speed motorcycle accident, and high-speed motor vehicle accident. A traumatic shoulder dislocation occurs when there is a sudden and severe lateral traction force applied to the shoulder.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms are sudden, severe pain and swelling of the upper arm and around the shoulder. You may also notice some bruising around the shoulder as well. Depending on the direction the shoulder dislocates, a round bulge may be seen in front of, below, or rarely, behind the shoulder itself. The individual will often be holding their arm down to their side at an odd angle with the forearm held against the chest.

Treatment and Prognosis

The treatment for a shoulder dislocation is to relocate or reduce the shoulder back into its proper place. This can be done in the emergency room with pain medication, such as Valium. Some doctors may opt to place the arm in a sling for 24-48 hours to allow the shoulder to recover prior to being heavily used. It is also recommended to slowly begin using the arm again once the doctor has cleared it for use.

Individuals with a shoulder dislocation typically recover following relocation of the shoulder. However, you should be aware that there is a high risk of recurrence.

Get the Injury Compensation You Deserve

It is important to understand what is covered in an accident settlement. Full compensation for a dislocated shoulder injury will include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other costs related to rehabilitation. Call (314) 322-8515 today to speak to an experienced St. Louis shoulder injury lawyer.