Which symptom is NOT commonly associated with shoulder dislocations?

Prepare for the NPTE Musculoskeletal Exam with comprehensive questions and detailed explanations to boost your confidence and knowledge. Sharpen your skills and ace the exam!

In the context of shoulder dislocations, symptoms are closely linked to the nature of the injury and the body's response to trauma. A dislocation occurs when the head of the humerus is displaced from the glenoid cavity of the scapula, leading to a range of symptoms.

Severe night pain is commonly reported as individuals often experience discomfort that disrupts sleep, particularly when lying on the affected side or if the shoulder is inadvertently positioned in a way that places stress on the joint. Weakness in shoulder movement can arise directly from the dislocation and associated muscle and nerve involvement, making it difficult to perform tasks that require shoulder strength and stability.

Visible deformity of the shoulder is a hallmark sign of dislocation, as the displacement often changes the normal contour of the shoulder, making it apparent upon visual inspection. This deformity is typically pronounced and easily observed as the arm may appear shorter or out of alignment.

In contrast, increased range of motion is not a symptom associated with dislocation. Instead, a dislocated shoulder generally leads to restricted mobility due to pain, swelling, and the unnatural positioning of the joint. Therefore, the presence of a dislocation is more likely to result in decreased range of motion, as the body instinctively protects the injured area

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