Multi-directional shoulder instability can be treated in a few different ways, but for best results, it’s important to confirm the diagnosis and understand why it developed in the first place. A shoulder specialist like Dr. Holloway can confirm your shoulder issue with a short physical assessment, chart review and with the help of a back and forth conversation with the patient. Assuming multi-directional shoulder instability is the problem, they’ll walk you through some common treatment options. In most instances, treatment begins and eventually ends thanks to a healthy dose of physical therapy.
Physical therapy addresses many underlying causes of multi-directional shoulder instability. It can tighten ligaments that have become loose due to injury or aging, strengthen muscles and tendons to better support the shoulder joint, and it can serve to improve flexibility and stability during certain movements that are proving to be challenging. Gradual adjustments to your strength training program can help you continue to progress and avoid rehabilitation plateaus that can sometimes occur with self-guided recovery programs. Many patients notice a significant improvement in symptoms after just a few weeks of physical therapy. It may also be helpful to pair physical therapy with certain passive recovery options, like rest, anti-inflammatory medications and hot/cold therapy.
For more serious cases of multi-directional shoulder instability, a minimally invasive surgical procedure may be recommended. Oftentimes this involves artificially reinforcing supportive soft tissues in the area, but it could also require reshaping of the ball or socket bones to ensure a better overall fit. Your surgeon will walk you through the specifics of your individual procedure should it reach this point, but for non-acute multi-directional instability, conservative care typically leads to enough improvement that surgery isn’t considered.
For more information about multi-directional shoulder instability and your treatment options, reach out to Dr. Holloway and his team today at (865) 410-7887.
