What is the main consequence of a severe shoulder dislocation?

A severe shoulder dislocation primarily results in possible damage to nerves and blood vessels. When the shoulder dislocates, the humeral head is forced out of its normal position in the glenoid cavity, which can stretch, tear, or compress nearby nerves and blood vessels. The brachial plexus, a network of nerves that sends signals to the shoulder, arm, and hand, is particularly susceptible during this incident, potentially leading to symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arm and hand.

Additionally, important blood vessels around the shoulder joint may also be compromised, leading to vascular complications. This can create a situation where the blood supply to the arm and hand is diminished, which may result in serious complications if not addressed promptly. Therefore, recognizing the risk of nerve and vascular injury is crucial for immediate treatment and management of severe shoulder dislocations.

In contrast, while complete loss of shoulder mobility can occur, it is often temporary and not the primary concern immediately after the event. Muscle atrophy can occur over time due to disuse but does not happen immediately following dislocation. Increased joint flexibility is not a consequence of dislocation; rather, dislocation itself indicates a loss of normal joint stability.