Shoulder Instability in Northampton & Corby
Your Local Experts in Shoulder Pain
Are you struggling with Shoulder PAIN and looking for effective, professional treatment? At Team Rehab UK Ltd, our dedicated clinics in Brixworth and Corby offer premium physiotherapy services to help you regain your mobility and live pain-free. With a minimum of 24 years of experience each, our highly skilled chartered physiotherapists are committed to providing personalised care tailored to your specific needs.
Understanding Shoulder Instability
Introduction to Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability is a prevalent condition that affects the most flexible joint in the human body. This joint's extraordinary range of motion, which allows us to perform various activities, also makes it susceptible to instability. When the shoulder becomes loose or unstable, it can lead to partial or complete dislocations, resulting in significant pain and discomfort.
The shoulder joint is a complex ball-and-socket structure. The ball is formed by the head of the upper arm bone (humerus), while the socket is a shallow cavity in the shoulder blade (glenoid). Surrounding the glenoid is a raised rim of fibrous cartilage called the labrum, which adds depth and stability to the joint. This stability is further enhanced by ligaments forming a capsule around the joint, as well as muscles and tendons that center the humeral head in the socket.
The Shoulder joints, rotator cuff and connective tissue, viewed from the front
The Shoulder joints, rotator cuff and connective tissue, viewed from the back
Causes of Shoulder Instability
There are several factors that can contribute to shoulder instability, including:
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Congenital Factors: Some individuals are born with inherently loose shoulder capsules, making them more prone to instability. This condition, known as multidirectional instability, can cause the shoulder to dislocate in multiple directions.
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Repetitive Overhead Activities: Engaging in sports or activities that involve repetitive overhead motions, such as tennis, swimming, or volleyball, can gradually loosen the shoulder capsule over time, leading to instability.
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Severe Injury or Trauma: Significant injuries or trauma, such as falls, accidents, or sports-related impacts, can result in shoulder dislocation and damage to the labrum, further contributing to instability.
Symptoms of Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability can present various symptoms, including:
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Pain: Discomfort or pain during certain movements of the shoulder, particularly during overhead activities or when reaching behind.
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Clicking or Grinding Sensation: A noticeable clicking, popping, or grinding sound in the shoulder joint, which may indicate instability.
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Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising around the shoulder, especially following a dislocation event.
Diagnosing Shoulder Instability
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for devising an effective treatment plan for shoulder instability. The diagnostic process is meticulous and involves several steps to ensure a thorough understanding of the condition. Here's a detailed look at the process:
Medical History and Physical Examination
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Initial Consultation:
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During your first visit, your physiotherapist in Northampton will begin by asking detailed questions about your symptoms. This includes the nature, onset, and duration of your pain, any activities that aggravate or alleviate your symptoms, and any previous injuries to your shoulder.
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Medical History Review:
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A comprehensive review of your medical history is conducted. This includes any past shoulder injuries, surgeries, and conditions that could contribute to instability. The physiotherapist will also consider your overall health, including any chronic illnesses or medications you are taking.
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Physical Examination:
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The physical examination is a hands-on assessment where the physiotherapist will:
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Palpate: Gently feel the shoulder structures to identify areas of tenderness or abnormality.
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Assess Range of Motion: Measure the range of motion in your shoulder to see if movement is limited or painful.
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Strength Testing: Evaluate the strength of the shoulder muscles, particularly those that support and stabilise the joint.
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Stability Tests: Perform specific maneuvers to test the stability of the shoulder joint. This may include tests like the apprehension test, relocation test, and anterior/posterior drawer tests to check for signs of dislocation or subluxation (partial dislocation).
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Observe: Look for visible signs of deformity, swelling, or bruising around the shoulder.
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Imaging Tests
If the initial examination indicates instability, further imaging tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the problem. These tests provide detailed images of the shoulder joint and its structures.
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X-rays:
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Purpose: X-rays are often the first imaging test ordered. They can reveal bone abnormalities, such as fractures or changes in bone alignment, that may contribute to instability.
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Procedure: You will be asked to hold your shoulder in various positions while a technician takes images. The process is quick and non-invasive.
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
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Purpose: An MRI provides a more detailed view of the soft tissues in the shoulder, including the labrum, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. It can identify tears, inflammation, or other soft tissue injuries that may not be visible on an X-ray.
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Procedure: During an MRI, you will lie still on a table that slides into the MRI machine. The procedure can take 30-60 minutes, and you will need to remain as still as possible to get clear images. An MRI is non-invasive and painless, though the machine can be noisy, and some patients may feel claustrophobic.
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Computed Tomography (CT) Scan:
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Purpose: In some cases, a CT scan may be used to get a more detailed view of the bone structures of the shoulder. It can provide cross-sectional images that are helpful in complex cases.
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Procedure: Similar to an MRI, you will lie on a table that moves through the CT scanner. The procedure is quick, usually taking only a few minutes.
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Ultrasound:
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Purpose: Ultrasound imaging can be useful for assessing dynamic stability issues and soft tissue structures in real-time. It is often used to guide injections or to assess the function of the shoulder during movement.
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Procedure: A technician or physiotherapist will apply a gel to your shoulder and move a small handheld device (transducer) over the skin. The device emits sound waves that create images on a monitor.
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Ensuring Optimal Treatment Outcomes
At Team Rehab UK, we are Northampton based physiotherapists we emphasise that treatments which are not effective should not continue beyond accepted clinical timescales without further in-depth investigations. We prefer these additional assessments to be conducted by consultant specialists outside our company’s financial interests. This approach ensures we receive an unbiased second opinion, guaranteeing that the care you receive is the most clinically appropriate.
Treatment Options
The primary goal of treatment is to restore stability, strength, and a full range of motion to the shoulder. Treatment options include:
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Closed Reduction: In cases of shoulder dislocation, a consultant can perform a closed reduction procedure to manipulate the joint under anaesthesia and realign it into its proper position.
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Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce pain and swelling. In some cases, steroid injections may be administered to decrease inflammation and improve mobility.
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Rest: Resting the injured shoulder and avoiding activities that involve overhead motion is crucial for healing. Wearing a sling for a duration provided by your consultant can provide support and promote recovery.
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Ice: Applying ice packs to the affected area for 20 minutes every hour can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Surgical Intervention
If conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, shoulder stabilisation surgery may be necessary. This surgical procedure aims to improve joint stability and prevent further dislocations.
Shoulder stabilisation surgery can be performed arthroscopically, which involves smaller incisions and less tissue trauma compared to open surgery. Arthroscopy uses a small, flexible tube with a light and video camera to evaluate and treat the joint.
Benefits of Arthroscopy
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Smaller Incisions: Minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions.
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Minimal Soft Tissue Damage: Reduced damage to surrounding tissues.
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Reduced Pain: Less postoperative pain compared to open surgery.
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Faster Recovery: Quicker return to normal activities.
Post Surgical Care
After surgery, your arm will be placed in a sling to rest the shoulder and promote healing. Pain management will include medications and ice packs. The sling may be removed after 3 to 6 weeks, as advised by your consultant, and a physiotherapy program will be initiated to improve shoulder mobility and strength.
Post Surgical Care
While shoulder stabilisation surgery generally provides good results, potential complications can include:
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Infection: Risk of infection at the surgical site.
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Bleeding: Potential for bleeding during or after the procedure.
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Nerve or Blood Vessel Damage: Possible injury to nerves or blood vessels surrounding the shoulder.
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Joint Stiffness: Postoperative stiffness that may require additional rehabilitation.
Patient Education Video - Shoulder Instability
At Team Rehab UK, we are dedicated to helping our patients understand the causes of their symptoms, empowering them to effectively manage their condition both during and after their treatment.
Please note that some of our video content may have been developed with at American market in mind and as such, may contain different medical terminology, or approaches, compared to those we use in the UK. The content however remains highly informative and beneficial. You should seek advice from your UK based specialist before acting on, or implementing any advice contained, or inferred in the video, to ensure it complies with UK best practice standards.
Summary
Shoulder instability is a chronic condition that can lead to frequent and painful dislocations. Shoulder stabilisation surgery can significantly enhance joint stability and function, reducing the risk of recurrent dislocations if conservative management fails.
If you're experiencing shoulder instability or related symptoms, consult with a physiotherapist in Northampton for a thorough evaluation and personalised treatment plan. At Team Rehab uk, we offer comprehensive physiotherapy services, including sports massage in Northampton, to help you recover effectively. We're recognised providers for Bupa Northampton and Axa Northampton, ensuring quality care for our patients. Don't let shoulder pain hold you back—reach out to our shoulder specialists in Northampton for expert care and support.
If you are experiencing shoulder pain in Northampton contact us today to book your appointment at Team Rehab uk in Northampton (Brixworth) or Corby, and take the first step towards a pain-free life. Share this information with friends or family who might benefit from our services, and let's help everyone get back to their best selves.
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At Team Rehab UK Ltd, we understand that every patient is unique. Our physiotherapists conduct thorough assessments to develop personalised treatment plans that address the root cause of your back pain. Whether you're suffering from acute discomfort or chronic pain, we have the expertise to help.
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We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain a healthy spine. Our physiotherapists provide ongoing support and education, helping you prevent future injuries and manage your condition effectively.
Convenient Locations in Brixworth and Corby
Brixworth Clinic
Our main rehabilitation centre in Northampton (Brixworth) was purpose built with the sole aim of providing the best opportunities for our expert team to provide you with the best recovery potential. Open in April 2024, the clinic is conveniently located and easily accessible, offering a welcoming environment where you can receive the highest standard of care. We are committed to making your visit as comfortable and effective as possible.
Corby Clinic
The Corby clinic is a much smaller set up within the Lakeside medical centre but we strive to deliver the same exceptional physiotherapy services, within the confines of the setting, ensuring that high-quality physiotherapy is available to the wider community. Our dedicated team is ready to help you overcome back pain and improve your quality of life.
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