Shoulder dislocations are common and can be painful and disabling.

There are a number of factors that can impact the severity of your injury, including the position of the arm when dislocation occurs and the orientation or tilt of a person’s socket. A better understanding of how these factors affect dislocations is important because it can help determine the best treatment.

Glenoid version, or the specific tilt or angle of the surface of your socket can impact your shoulder’s stability. Studies document a normal glenoid version range, with degrees outside of this range suspected to contribute to shoulder instability. However, the exact degree of version that may predispose you to shoulder dislocations remained unanswered until now. 

Headline of article on shoulder instability

In a recently published study, Eichinger et al. uncovered the relationship between glenoid version and the force required to dislocate the shoulder joint. The authors found statistical differences at 5 degree increments of glenoid version, with each increment representing a 30 percent change in the force required to dislocate. The total energy required to dislocate also decreased with increasing glenoid version. This suggests an increased risk for shoulder instability based off of your degree of glenoid version.Headshot of Dr. Eichinger

If you or someone you know has a problem with shoulder instability, come see Dr. Eichinger and the rest of the shoulder and elbow team at MUSC Health. We're leading the way in ensuring the health and function of your shoulders and elbows.