The shoulder joint—Is it dislocated? Apparent dislocation of the shoulder joint

The phenomenon of apparent dislocation of the shoulder joint is described and illustrated with reference to clinical cases. The importance of accurate clinical and radiological differentiation between apparent and true dislocation of the shoulder is emphasised, in order to prevent unnecessary and abortive attempts at manipulation of apparently dislocated shoulders. A regime of conservative treatment of apparent dislocation is outlined. The various factors believed to contribute to apparent dislocation are discussed. The three main causes are Trauma, Infection and Paralysis.