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The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Reverse Hill-Sachs Lesion (Posterior Shoulder Dislocation Injury)
A reverse Hill-Sachs lesion is a dent or compression fracture in the front of the humeral head (shoulder ball) caused by posterior shoulder dislocation, where the shoulder ball jams against the back of the socket creating a permanent divot - it's much less common than regular Hill-Sachs lesions (from anterior dislocations) and may cause recurrent posterior instability requiring surgical repair if the defect involves more than 25% of the joint surface.
đWhat is Reverse Hill-Sachs Lesion (Posterior Shoulder Dislocation Injury)?
A reverse Hill-Sachs lesion is a dent or compression fracture in the front of the humeral head (shoulder ball) caused by posterior shoulder dislocation, where the shoulder ball jams against the back of the socket creating a permanent divot - it's much less common than regular Hill-Sachs lesions (from anterior dislocations) and may cause recurrent posterior instability requiring surgical repair if the defect involves more than 25% of the joint surface.
đŦWhat Causes It?
- Posterior shoulder dislocation causing front of humeral head to impact against back of glenoid (socket), creating compression fracture
- Seizure activity (epilepsy, alcohol withdrawal) causing forceful muscle contractions that dislocate shoulder posteriorly
- Electric shock injury (lightning, electrocution) with violent muscle contractions
- High-energy trauma (car accident, fall from height) forcing shoulder backward
â ī¸Risk Factors
You may be at higher risk if:
- Seizure disorder (epilepsy - 30-50% of posterior dislocations occur during seizures)
- Alcohol misuse (withdrawal seizures leading to shoulder dislocation)
- Electric shock exposure (occupational hazard for electricians, lineworkers)
- Contact sports or high-energy activities (football, rugby, motor vehicle accidents)
đĄī¸Prevention
- âManage seizure disorder with consistent anti-epileptic medications (reduces seizure frequency)
- âElectrical safety precautions (circuit breakers, protective equipment for workers)
- âAvoid alcohol misuse (withdrawal seizures are preventable cause of posterior dislocations)
- âIf first-time posterior dislocation treated, complete full physiotherapy program to strengthen posterior shoulder stabilizers