Stabilization Procedure for a Highly Mobile Shoulder
A 17-year-old female weighing 230 pounds is sharing her experience. I have been diagnosed with classical Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which means I experience hypermobility throughout my body, but my shoulders are particularly affected. My right shoulder frequently dislocates, often triggered by simple actions such as turning over in bed or reaching for something. When it happens, I typically manage to relocate it myself, despite the pain and tears, holding off on seeking medical attention out of concern for burdening the healthcare professionals. Eventually, though, I do go for an X-ray. In my last X-ray, the results showed that my shoulder was still subluxated and causing me a significant amount of discomfort. However, as the week progressed, I noticed some improvement. During my visit to the trauma surgery specialist, he mentioned that he would typically recommend stabilization surgery. Nevertheless, he expressed concern that due to my condition, I might simply ‘bend through’ the surgical repairs, leading to further dislocations. This marks my fourth incident of dislocation, and I'm desperate to avoid future occurrences. Has anyone had success with this type of surgery for patients with EDS, or is it likely to be ineffective? I appreciate any insights.
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 11:50:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about your shoulder dislocations, especially given your diagnosis of classical Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). The instability in your shoulder can be distressing and lead to significant discomfort and reduced quality of life. It's commendable that you are seeking information to make the best decision for your health.
Overview of the Situation: You have EDS, which causes hypermobility and makes your joints, particularly your shoulder, prone to dislocations. Your doctor mentioned stabilization surgery but expressed concerns about its effectiveness due to the nature of your condition.
Understanding Your Options:
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Surgery for Joint Stabilization: Generally, surgical interventions like shoulder stabilization aim to repair the ligaments and tissues surrounding the joint to prevent future dislocations. However, in cases like yours, where there is a significant degree of hypermobility, the results can vary. Some patients with EDS do benefit from surgery, but others may find that their joints continue to be unstable post-operation.
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Non-Surgical Management: Before deciding on surgery, many patients find relief through non-surgical approaches tailored to EDS. These can include physical therapy, bracing, and activity modification aimed at strengthening the shoulder muscles while avoiding movements that trigger dislocation.
Next Steps:
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Consult a Specialist: Consider seeking a second opinion from an orthopedic surgeon experienced with EDS. They can offer a clearer idea of potential surgical outcomes and assess your individual situation, especially regarding stabilization procedures.
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Explore Physical Therapy: Work with a physical therapist familiar with EDS. They can create a specialized rehabilitation program focusing on strengthening the shoulder area and improving joint stability without causing further stress.
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Bracing and Activity Modifications: Consider using a shoulder brace during activities that pose a risk for dislocation and discuss lifestyle adjustments that can help minimize the strain on your shoulder.
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Pain Management: Manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medications if approved by your healthcare provider, and apply ice to reduce inflammation after activity.
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Keep Documentation: Document each dislocation incident, noting triggers and recovery times. This can be helpful for future consultations and treatment plans.
Your concerns are valid, and it’s important to explore all options to determine what will best support your shoulder health and overall well-being. Please remember that seeking help is not a burden; it's a vital part of managing your condition effectively. If you have further questions or need clarification about any specific aspect, feel free to ask.
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