Locations:
Search IconSearch

What’s the Difference Between Shoulder Dislocation and Subluxation?

The short answer from an orthopaedic surgeon

X-ray visual of a shoulder dislocation.

Q: What’s the difference between shoulder dislocation and subluxation?

A: Has your shoulder ever popped out of place? You feel the pop — and then the pain. Unfortunately, if this happens, you are more at risk for shoulder instability and re-injury, especially if you’re young and active.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

In some cases, the ball at the top of your upper arm bone (humerus) may come out of the socket only partially — called “subluxation.” This means that your shoulder moves past the normal location on the socket but is not completely out of place.

When it pops out completely, it’s known as dislocation. Both injuries can cause pain, arm weakness and swelling.

Some dislocations spontaneously reduce, and it’s difficult to determine if they were subluxations or dislocations. Your doctor can use advanced imaging, such as an MRI, as well as conducting a thorough history and physical to help determine this.

shoulder dislocation may stretch or tear surrounding ligaments, tendons and muscles. It may even bruise or damage the bone.

Both immediate medical treatment and follow-up care are important because tearing muscles or ligaments typically leads to shoulder instability, which makes it easier for your shoulder to pop out again.

— Orthopaedic surgeon Anne Marie Chicorelli, DO.

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Large hand with athlete-taped wrist and fingers gripping football on the field
October 16, 2024/Orthopaedics
Understanding the Concussion Protocol, From Little League to the NFL

Concussion protocol describes the steps needed to test for concussion and return to play — timelines vary

Couple raking leaves in their front yard by their house
October 16, 2024/Orthopaedics
Tips To Avoid Back Pain From Raking Leaves

Using proper form and the right equipment can help keep you injury-free while gathering up that colorful foliage

Person outside, grabbing shoulder
September 17, 2024/Orthopaedics
Tendonitis vs. Tendinosis: How Can I Tell the Difference?

Both are forms of tendinopathy, but one is more of an acute injury caused by inflammation, while the other is the result of degeneration over time

Person resting on couch with bandaged knee elevated on couch pillow
August 19, 2024/Orthopaedics
What’s the Best Way To Sleep After Meniscus Surgery?

You may have to keep your leg straight, but you can sleep in any position

Child on baseball mound pitching
July 29, 2024/Children's Health
Preventing Overuse Injuries in Young Athletes

Build breaks into training routines to prevent the wear and tear behind repetitive stress

Person putting on athletic shoes
July 10, 2024/Orthopaedics
How To Pick the Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Footwear that offers cushioning plus heel and arch support can help you relieve and manage symptoms

Person typing on keyboard in front of computer screen
May 29, 2024/Orthopaedics
Typing 101: How To Avoid Wrist Pain

Over-the-counter pain medications, typing pads and wrist braces can help when you’re in a wrist pinch

Medical technician looking through large, lighted magnifying glass, working on patient's foot
April 23, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
6 Benefits of Medical Pedicures: Should You Try It?

Safety, hygiene and technician training are among the biggest benefits of a ‘medi pedi’

Trending Topics

Female and friend jogging outside
How To Increase Your Metabolism for Weight Loss

Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress

stovetop with stainless steel cookware and glassware
5 Ways Forever Chemicals (PFAS) May Affect Your Health

PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body

jar of rice water and brush, with rice scattered around table
Could Rice Water Be the Secret To Healthier Hair?

While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims

Ad