(HealthDay News) -- When the ball of the shoulder joint is dislodged from the socket, the joint has been dislocated.
In severe cases, ligaments, tendons and nerves near the injury may also be affected, says the University of Michigan Health System.
Symptoms include numbness in the shoulder, arm or hand; pain when you move the shoulder; and loss of normal movement.
Within 30 minutes of the injury, the shoulder can become very swollen and painful. A dislocated shoulder is repaired by reinserting the ball back into the socket.
Ice packs, cold compresses and pain medication can help reduce swelling and pain. The affected arm usually must be kept in a sling for two to three weeks.
