Shoulder Instability Treatment in Boston
Dr. Robert E. McLaughlin II, MD evaluates and treats shoulder instability and dislocations with and without surgery. Same-day or next-day appointments at four Massachusetts offices.
Call 978-969-3624
What is shoulder instability, and how is it treated?
Shoulder instability occurs when the ball of the shoulder joint slips out of the socket. It can result from a dislocation, repeated subluxations, or connective tissue looseness. Symptoms include pain, weakness, clicking or popping, and a feeling that the shoulder is slipping or may give out.
Dr. McLaughlin evaluates each patient to determine the extent of instability and the best course of treatment. Some cases can be managed with physical therapy; others require surgical stabilization. Dr. McLaughlin discusses all options with each patient.
Call 978-969-3624 for a same-day or next-day evaluation at any of our four offices.
Robert E. McLaughlin II, MD is a board-certified Orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in sports medicine, named a Boston Magazine Top Doctor in 2025 and 2026. He sees every patient himself.
- Condition Shoulder instability, dislocations, subluxations
- Non-surgical Physical therapy and activity modification
- Surgical Arthroscopic stabilization available
- Surgery location Beverly Hospital (Lahey) and New England Surgery Center
- Appointments Same-day or next-day at four offices
Shoulder instability treatment options
Dr. McLaughlin evaluates each case of shoulder instability and recommends treatment based on severity and the patient’s goals.
Physical therapy
Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder can restore stability in many cases. Dr. McLaughlin provides expedited PT referrals when needed.
Cortisone injections
Cortisone injections can reduce pain and inflammation associated with shoulder instability and allow for better participation in physical therapy.
Learn more →Arthroscopic stabilization
When surgery is needed, Dr. McLaughlin performs arthroscopic procedures to repair and tighten the structures that hold the shoulder in place. Surgery is performed at Beverly Hospital (Lahey) and New England Surgery Center in Beverly.
Types and causes of shoulder instability
Shoulder instability usually develops in one of three ways. A traumatic dislocation, from a fall, a tackle, or a sudden pull on the arm, can stretch or tear the ligaments and labrum that hold the ball in the socket. Repeated overhead activity, such as throwing, swimming, or lifting, can gradually loosen these structures. Some people naturally have looser joints, so the shoulder can slip in more than one direction. Doctors describe instability by direction: anterior (the ball slips forward, the most common type), posterior (it slips backward), or multidirectional (it is loose in more than one direction). Once a shoulder has dislocated, it is more likely to happen again, so an evaluation after the first episode matters.
How shoulder instability is diagnosed
Diagnosis starts with a detailed history of how and when the shoulder slipped, followed by an examination that checks motion, strength, and how loose the joint is in different directions. X-rays show the bones and signs of past dislocations, and an MRI shows the labrum, ligaments and tendons. Expedited MRI options are available when needed.
Recovery after shoulder stabilization surgery
After stabilization surgery, the arm is protected in a sling while the repair heals. Physical therapy then restores motion and strength step by step, and return to sports or heavy lifting is gradual. Dr. McLaughlin sees every patient himself, before and after surgery, and expedited physical therapy options are available.
Shoulder instability questions
What should I do after a shoulder dislocation?
After a dislocation, the shoulder should be evaluated so any damage to the labrum, ligaments, or bone can be found and treated. Same-day or next-day appointments are available with Dr. McLaughlin. Boston Concierge Orthopedics is not an urgent care or walk-in clinic, so a shoulder that is still out of place needs emergency care first.
Can shoulder instability be treated without surgery?
Shoulder instability can sometimes be treated without surgery, through physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder. Dr. McLaughlin evaluates each case and discusses whether surgical stabilization is needed.
Does Dr. McLaughlin treat shoulder dislocations?
Yes. Dr. McLaughlin evaluates and treats shoulder dislocations and instability at Boston Concierge Orthopedics. Call 978-969-3624 to schedule an evaluation.
Can a shoulder keep dislocating?
Yes. A shoulder that has dislocated once is more likely to slip again, especially in younger and active people. Physical therapy, and surgery when needed, aim to restore stability and lower that risk.
What surgery does Dr. McLaughlin perform for shoulder instability?
When surgery is needed, Dr. McLaughlin performs Bankart repair or the Latarjet procedure. A Bankart repair reattaches the torn labrum. The Latarjet procedure is generally used when the socket has lost bone. Dr. McLaughlin explains which one fits your shoulder.
Shoulder instability care at all four offices
One phone number for every office: 978-969-3624. Phones are answered Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM.
Boston
115 Newbury Street5th Floor
Boston, MA 02116Monday–Friday 8 AM–5 PMOffice details →Get directions
Norwood
520 Boston Providence Tpk.Suite 14
Norwood, MA 02062Monday–Friday 8 AM–5 PMOffice details →Get directions
Beverly
900 Cummings CenterSuite 221U
Beverly, MA 01915Monday–Friday 8 AM–5 PMOffice details →Get directions