Orthopaedics – Surgeries – Treatment
Shoulder Condition Treatment
Treatment of Chronic Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability can manifest in various forms, with anterior-inferior instability—often occurring after a dislocation—being the most common. In this condition, the patient struggles to maintain the head of the humerus centered within the glenoid cavity, which serves as the socket of the joint. This results in pain and a sense of instability, especially during overhead arm movements, such as throwing. Additionally, transient numbness in the arm may also occur.
In the case of an acute shoulder dislocation, the head of the humerus is gently repositioned into the joint socket, providing immediate pain relief. Following reduction, a period of immobilization and physiotherapy is recommended. If conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical intervention may be considered, depending on the patient’s age and activity level.
Arthroscopic stabilization When instability cannot be managed conservatively, arthroscopic stabilization is the most effective solution. Surgical options are tailored to the patient's needs. For anterior instability with a glenoid bone defect greater than 15%, Dr. Nikolaos Platon Sachinis performs arthroscopic glenoid reconstruction using an autologous bone graft from the patient’s iliac crest, or alternatively employs the Latarjet technique, using a graft from the coracoid process of the shoulder. For smaller bone defects or Hill-Sachs lesions, complementary techniques are utilized to achieve a stable outcome.
Recovery:
Following the surgery, the rehabilitation program includes:
- Active full flexion movements starting from the 4th week.
- Internal and external rotations with weights starting from the 6th week.
- Full weightlifting at 3 months, with 70% of mobility restored.
- Full mobility (75–100%) by 6 months, with the potential to return to athletic activities.
The success of the recovery depends on the surgeon’s expertise and the proper implementation of the personalized treatment plan.
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