Core concepts in the management of shoulder instability.

Abstract

Shoulder instability is a clinical problem that varies from recurrent dislocation in sporting activities to the patient who has never experienced significant shoulder trauma but cannot lift the arm above shoulder height without experiencing dislocation. This article takes a high level view of the concepts the orthopaedic trainee should understand in order to evaluate a patient and decide on appropriate treatment. These treatment methods are also considered, linking each to the concepts underpinning our understanding of instability.