Shoulder instability is a common condition, particularly among active individuals, and understanding the difference between true instability and simple looseness of the joint is key to proper diagnosis and treatment. Instability is typically what a patient feels such as the shoulder “popping out” or giving way while laxity refers to increased joint motion found on exam that may or may not cause symptoms. Importantly, patients can have instability without measurable laxity, and vice versa, which is why listening closely to a patient’s experience remains one of the most valuable diagnostic tools.

Off-piste skiing is the ultimate adventure for those seeking the thrill of untouched powder and challenging terrain. However, it also comes with unique risks, particularly to the shoulders. Navigating uneven snow, steep slopes, and hidden obstacles can put significant strain on this critical joint, leading to injuries such as dislocations, sprains, or rotator cuff tears.

Understanding the cause of your shoulder pain is the first step to a full recovery. Working with a sports medicine specialist like Dr. Sterett ensures a tailored treatment plan that addresses the specific injury and your unique needs as an athlete.

Shoulder instability occurs when the structures surrounding the shoulder joint no longer keep the ball within its socket, leading to frequent shoulder dislocations or a feeling that the shoulder might give out. This condition can result from a traumatic injury, repetitive strain, or congenital factors.

The question, "can a dislocated shoulder cause a rotator cuff tear?" is often asked by patients. The answer is yes. The force that dislocates the shoulder can indeed cause a tear in the rotator cuff.

Dr. Sterett states, "Shoulder popping may originate from dynamic interactions between the bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage within the joint”

Dr. Sterett explains, “The most common direction for a shoulder dislocation is anteriorly – where the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket towards the front of the body. This type of dislocation, known as an anterior shoulder dislocation, accounts for approximately 95% of all shoulder dislocations.”

Winter has arrived, which means one thing for ski and snowboard fans: it's time to hit the slopes! However, that also means that Dr. Sterett, Vail Valley's leading orthopaedic surgeon, begins to see an increase in shoulder injuries – the most common being rotator cuff tears.

Let's take a look at three of the most common causes of shoulder weakness, alongside treatment options to help you regain strength and restore function.

Are you experiencing shoulder pain or weakness? Is it difficult to lift your arm above your head? You might be dealing with a rotator cuff injury — one of the most common sources of shoulder pain.

Shoulder ligaments — the fibrous tissues that connect the bones of the shoulder joint to each other — can tear due to repetitive or traumatic stress.

Sometimes, after a fall or overuse, the rotator cuff can tear. Here are some frequently asked questions Dr. Sterett and his team receive from patients with a rotator cuff injury.

Swimmer’s shoulder is a common term that refers to shoulder impingement. This is an overuse injury typically seen in athletes whose sports involve repetitive shoulder movements.

Here are some of the most common shoulder injuries Team Sterett treats in mountain bikers (and how we help get them back on the bike).