Recurrent shoulder dislocation is a condition that occurs when the shoulder joint is dislocated more than once. Even if the first dislocation has been treated properly, there is still a possibility of recurrence. The most common cause of recurrent shoulder dislocation is the inability of the tissues that provide stability to the shoulder joint to heal completely after the first dislocation. This may lead to the detachment of the labrum, which is the cartilage support that attaches to the bone, and also the slackening of the shoulder capsule.

Recurrent dislocations can cause damage to the muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint, as well as joint deterioration and arthritis. In addition, unexpected dislocations may cause additional injuries. Surgical treatment is usually recommended for recurrent shoulder dislocations.

There are three types of recurrent shoulder instability:

1- Traumatic dislocations:

This type of dislocation is caused by significant trauma such as falling, crashing or a car accident, and may only occur in one direction, either forward or backward. It is associated with a tear in the labrum, and surgery is usually the only effective treatment.

  1. Atraumatic dislocations:

This type of dislocation occurs without significant trauma and may occur in both shoulders. It is usually caused by excessive stress during daily activities, such as rotating the arm or throwing, and may occur in both directions, forward and backward. Physical therapy is the primary treatment for this type of dislocation, but surgery may also be required in some cases.

  1. Voluntary dislocations:

This type of dislocation is associated with psychological components and is classified as an atraumatic dislocation. Patients voluntarily dislocate their shoulders forward or backward and then relocate them. Psychological therapy may be required for patients who repeatedly dislocate their shoulders voluntarily to help them avoid this behavior.