Inferior Subluxation of the Humeral Head: The Drooping Shoulder

Abstract

A case of inferior subluxation of the glenohumeral joint associated with a fractured surgical neck of the humerus is described. The various etiologies of the “drooping shoulder” are discussed. Increased intra-articular pressure from hemarthrosis, although initially described in hemophiliacs, is a common finding. Elevation of the arm in a sling and arthrocentesis were shown to correct the subluxation both clinically and roentgenographically. The importance in differentiating this lesion from true fracture-dislocation of the shoulder is stressed.