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Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability can significantly impact your daily life and athletic performance. At OrthoKnox, we understand the frustration and discomfort associated with shoulder instability. Our experienced orthopedic specialists are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your shoulder problems. With advanced treatments and personalized rehabilitation plans, we can help you regain shoulder strength, stability, and function. Learn more about shoulder instability here.
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Understanding Shoulder Instability
What is shoulder instability?
Shoulder instability is a condition that occurs when the humeral head, or ball, of the shoulder will not stay centered and stable on the glenoid, or socket. When the head slips or moves off of the glenoid, this is an instability. It is classically painful and disabling. The instability may be subtle and manifest itself as pain only, or it may be severe and the shoulder pops completely out of joint. This often necessitates an urgent trip to OrthoKnox to have the shoulder reduced back into the joint.
One of the key tissues at risk of damage with shoulder instability is the labrum, which serves as a bumper or gasket to the shoulder helping stabilize the ball in the socket. Once the shoulder dislocates, this cartilaginous tissue called the labrum is frequently torn along with the capsule, leading to chronic problems with shoulder instability.
What is a Bankart Tear?
A Bankart tear is a tear to the labrum and capsule in a specific location of the shoulder, the anterior and inferior, or the bottom part of the front of the shoulder. This tear usually involves a key stabilizing ligament called the inferior glenohumeral ligament. Bankart tears are far more common in younger people — ages 30 and under —and almost always occur with a traumatic dislocation of the shoulder. Bankart tears often lead to persistent problems with instability, which is why you should seek the help of the OrthoKnox team.
How should shoulder instability be corrected?
While rest and time may help to reduce the pain and inflammation of a dislocated shoulder, if you’ve torn your labrum, you’re at a much higher risk of developing shoulder instability, even after you heal from the initial pain. Because of this, the providers often recommend arthroscopic reconstructive surgery, especially if you’re young and wish to continue your active lifestyle and sports.
With a Bankart reconstruction, your surgeon views the shoulder arthroscopically and repairs the torn capsule and labrum to restore stability to your shoulder. First, your doctor reattaches the labrum, and then he tightens the ligaments. To do this, he uses small implants called suture anchors that are implanted in the bone with the suture attached in such a way that the surgeon can sew the ligaments and labrum back down to the bone.
Almost as important as the reconstructive surgery is the work you do afterward through physical therapy to strengthen your shoulder and regain motion. By following your physical therapy instructions, you regain the greatest degree of function possible and prevent re-injury of your shoulder.
Shoulder Treatment and Surgery in Knoxville, TN and the Knox County Area
To explore your treatment options, call OrthoKnox at 865.251.3030 or request an appointment online.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
EXCELLENT. I can't say enough good things...[My provider] was kind, caring, compassionate, knowledgeable, explained my options now and in the future…Very personable. Any patient would be extremely blessed to have him as your provider. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
— J.R.
The staff and the doctors are friendly and caring. They listen to what you have to say and answer your questions so that you understand. I highly recommend ORTHOKNOX!
— S.W.
My son suffered a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus and broken cartilage in the high school football playoffs last season. Dr.Hovis performed surgery and my son was able to play the first game of the season this year! Dr. Hovis was great! We appreciate him so much!
— L.A.
Excellent experience. Mike took great care of me and was very thorough helping me figure out a complicated problem. 10/10 would recommend.
— S.G.
Neil is patient, responds to all my questions, provides objective options and delivers compassionate care. Never once did I feel rushed or uninformed.
— K.U.
My physical therapist was knowledgeable and personable and made me feel at ease throughout the entire session. I appreciated the thorough explanation of the treatment plan and the clear instructions on how to continue the exercises at home. I highly recommend this physical therapist to anyone needing care.
— W.C.
OrthoKnox is an excellent place. I had total knee replacement 3 weeks ago, and I am recovering beautifully. All my friends and family cannot believe how far I’ve come in just 3 weeks. The staff is very kind, caring and take the time to ensure that all my concerns, fears and questions are resolved. Dr. Hovis and his PA, Neil Stoner, are the best.
— P.S.
Instantly felt at ease and reassured with my daughter’s care. Professional, informative and great bedside manner!
— M.P.
Everyone here has been amazing since first coming in through diagnosis, surgery, and now the recovery phase. Couldn't recommend these people enough.
— D.I.
All the doctors and staff at OrthoKnox including those in the physical therapy department, are very caring, and competent. I have been very satisfied with both the surgery outcome as well as the recovery. One nice thing is there is very little wait time after you arrive at your appointed time.
— G.V.
Very friendly and prompt! Always a good experience at this office. Lovely staff!
— R.B.
Laura has been great! She has been extremely friendly and professional at every visit. She has helped me make substantial improvement in my injury.
— W.O.
Delightful, helpful, encouraging, professional group. I am very grateful for their kindness.
— G.M.
Dr. Hovis has taken care of me the past 12 years. Started out with knee surgery and later in life with a shoulder that needed an injection. I would never go anywhere else because he is the best, and he cares. My last visit a couple of months ago was like seeing a family member again. You’re in good hands here.
— J.S.
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