Shoulder instability.

Abstract

Shoulder instability can result from acute injury or repetitive overhead activity. Once the injury is identified, the initial course of treatment is aggressive rehabilitation. Structural injuries can occur but may not be clinically significant. Should a thorough scapular stabilization and rotator cuff strengthening program fail, consultation with an orthopedic surgeon to consider further imaging or possible intervention is appropriate. As the physician's study of approaches to the first-time dislocator continues, they will be better informed of reasonable options to offer the athlete.