The shoulder: facts, confusions and myths

The purpose of this paper is to address some of the myths, facts and confusions about the shoulder. Myth: Recurrent subluxation or dislocation of the shoulder requires surgery. Fact: The most important shoulder muscle is the anterior deltoid. Myth: You can diagnose shoulder problems with two anterior/posterior x-rays. Fact: You must keep track of the pins you insert for shoulder problems. Confusion: The position of the shoulder for arthrodesis: which to choose? Confusion: What if the arthrodesis is painful? Myth: You don't need the clavicle and can resect it without any problems. Fact: All sternoclavicular dislocations are not dislocations. Fact: Do not repair or reconstruct spontaneous sternoclavicular dislocations in children and young adults. Confusion: What is the role of the arthroscope in the diagnosis and treatment of shoulder problems? Fact: There are more than just Type I, II and III injuries to the acromioclavicular joint. Fact: Total shoulder arthroplasty is not an experimental operation. Myth: All patients with a sore shoulder need an arthrogram. All patients with positive arthrograms need an operation. All rotator cuffs must be repaired.