Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • Age and Gender
  • Sports and Activities
  • Previous Injuries
  • Anatomy and Genetics

Who's at Risk for Shoulder Dislocation?

Who's at Risk for Shoulder Dislocation?

Understanding the Risks

While shoulder dislocations can happen to anyone, certain factors increase your likelihood of experiencing this painful injury. Knowing your risk can help you take preventive measures.
Contents
  • Age and Gender
  • Sports and Activities
  • Previous Injuries
  • Anatomy and Genetics

Age and Gender

Young adults, especially males between 15-29 years old, are at highest risk for shoulder dislocations. This is often due to their participation in high-impact sports and activities. However, older adults face unique risks too, as age-related changes can make the shoulder more vulnerable.

Sports and Activities

Contact sports like football, rugby, and hockey carry a high risk of shoulder dislocation. Other activities with fall risks, such as skiing or gymnastics, also increase the chances. Even everyday activities like reaching overhead or falling can cause a dislocation, especially in those with previous injuries.
Factors such as age, gender, and participation in high-impact sports increase the risk of shoulder dislocations.

Previous Injuries

Once you've had a shoulder dislocation, you're at much higher risk for future episodes. This is especially true for young athletes, where recurrence rates can be as high as 90%. Previous shoulder injuries or surgeries also increase your risk.

Anatomy and Genetics

Some people are born with looser ligaments or shallower shoulder sockets, making them more prone to dislocations. Certain medical conditions that affect connective tissue, like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, also increase the risk of joint instability and dislocation.

FAQs

Are men or women more at risk?

Men are about 3 times more likely to dislocate their shoulder.

Does risk decrease with age?

Yes, but older adults face higher complication risks.

Can I lower my risk?

Strengthening exercises and proper technique in sports help.

Are both shoulders equally at risk?

The dominant arm is slightly more prone to dislocation.

Do genetics play a role?

Yes, some people are genetically predisposed to joint laxity.

Knowledge is Power

Understanding your risk factors for shoulder dislocation can help you take steps to protect your joints and stay active safely.
Concerned about your shoulder dislocation risk? Discuss prevention strategies with Doctronic today.
Additional References
  1. Zacchilli MA, Owens BD. Epidemiology of shoulder dislocations presenting to emergency departments in the United States. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2010; 92:542.
  2. Olds M, Ellis R, Donaldson K, et al. Risk factors which predispose first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocations to recurrent instability in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med 2015; 49:913.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.