What are the signs and symptoms of a dislocation? If the shoulder is dislocated, it is usually very apparent: The shoulder is quite painful. Motion is severely restricted. The shoulder appears to hang down and forward, with a large dimple evident under the acromion (in the area of the collar bone). The humeral head may be visible as a bump on the front of the shoulder, or in the armpit. To return the dislocated arm to its socket (called a reduction) usually requires a visit to the emergency department, where expert assistance can be found. Some individuals with recurrent dislocations eventually become experienced at reducing the arm themselves.