When it comes to any type of orthopedic repair, specifically shoulder instability repair, it is vital for surgeons to understand the expectations of patients in order to balance their predictions with realistic outcomes. Patients will naturally make assumptions about when and to what level they will return to sports after shoulder instability repair. By thoroughly understanding these expectations, orthopedic surgeons like Dr. Bennett of Bennett Orthopedics and Sportsmedicine can help patients prepare for realistic results and prevent low patient satisfaction.

What Is Shoulder Instability?

Shoulder instability occurs when the head of the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket. This painful condition is seen as a result of both overuse and sudden injury. Also known as a dislocation, shoulder instability can be partial, with the ball of the upper arm coming just a bit out of the socket, or complete, when the ball comes fully out of the socket.

Many athletes and weekend warriors experience multiple shoulder dislocations because repetitive movements over many years cause the ligaments, tendons, and muscles around the shoulder to become loose or torn. WIthout tight, firm, fully intact ligaments, tendons, and muscles, it’s much easier for the shoulder to become unstable. Unfortunately, repeated episodes of dislocations can increase the risk of developing arthritis in the shoulder joint.   

Managing Expectations with Realistic Outcomes

In a study published in March 2017 titled “Patients’ Expectations of Shoulder Instability Repair,” the authors revealed that of 145 patients undergoing surgery for shoulder instability, a full 95 percent expected to return to athletic activity at the same pre-operative level with minimal restrictions. In fact, the patients with the highest sports performance prior to surgery showed the highest post-operative sport expectations.  

Overall, this indicates a few things for orthopedic surgeons. First, surgeons should utilize the best and most cutting-edge techniques and technologies in order to maximize patient results. Dr. William F. Bennett at Bennett Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, for example, repairs dislocations arthroscopically and has developed innovative techniques to help stabilize the biceps tendon in its groove as it enters the shoulder. These strategies give patients a better chance of obtaining the recovery results that they envision. Additionally, orthopedic surgeons should be sure to discuss realistic expectations with patients to help them understand the course of the surgery and recovery process.