Inferior shoulder dislocation

Background

• Assoc w/ significant soft tissue trauma or fracture
• Via hyperabduction force which levers the humeral neck against the acromion

Clinical Features

• Pt p/w humerus fully abducted with hand on or behind the head
• Humeral head can be palpated on lateral chest wall

Differential Diagnosis

• Shoulder dislocation
  • Anterior shoulder dislocation
  • Posterior shoulder dislocation
  • Inferior shoulder dislocation

Management

• Reduce
  • Traction in upward and outward direction
• Sling, ortho f/u (rotator cuff tear is the norm)

See Also

• Shoulder dislocation