glenohumeral instability

Last reviewed 01/2018

This is a cause of shoulder pain and tendinitis in young people.

This condition involves shoulder capsule laxity and often rotator cuff weakness.

Presentation may be with a history of the shoulder giving way or the arm going dead after an activity e.g. throwing a ball. There will be a positive apprehension test.

Initial treatment is with analgesia and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Physiotherapy will be required to correct associated muscle imbalance and strengthen the rotator cuff.

If there are recurrent or persistent problems then surgical referral may be necessary.