In short, dislocated shoulder treatment involves immediate reduction of the joint, followed by immobilization and rehabilitation to restore full function.
- Immediate Reduction – Emergency relocation of the shoulder joint back into proper position.
- Immobilization Period – Sling or brace usage to allow healing and prevent re-injury.
- Rehabilitation Therapy – Physical therapy exercises to rebuild strength and range of motion.
Dislocated shoulder treatment begins with emergency care to relocate the joint and continues through a structured recovery process. This painful injury occurs when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, requiring prompt medical attention to prevent complications.
Let us explore the common orthopedic treatments for a dislocated shoulder.
What Is a Dislocated Shoulder
A shoulder dislocation happens when the ball-shaped head of the humerus separates from the glenoid socket. The shoulder joint allows the greatest range of motion of any joint in the body, which also makes it the most frequently dislocated major joint.
Most dislocations occur in the anterior direction, meaning the arm bone moves forward out of the socket. Posterior dislocations are less common but can happen during seizures or electrical injuries.
How Do Doctors Diagnose a Dislocated Shoulder
Medical professionals use several methods to confirm a shoulder dislocation. Physical examination reveals obvious deformity, severe pain, and inability to move the arm normally.
X-rays provide a definitive diagnosis by showing the displaced bone position. Additional imaging, like CT scans or MRI, may be necessary to check for associated fractures or soft tissue damage.
What Are the Primary Treatment Options
The following are the primary dislocated shoulder treatment options.
Closed Reduction
Closed reduction represents the first-line treatment for most shoulder dislocations. This procedure involves manually manipulating the arm bone back into the socket without surgery.
Several techniques exist for closed reduction:
- Stimson Technique – Patient lies face down while gentle traction is applied.
- External Rotation Method – Gradual rotation of the arm while bent at 90 degrees.
- Traction-Countertraction – Pull on the arm while applying pressure to the chest.
Pain medication or sedation often helps patients relax during the procedure.
Immobilization and Sling Use
After successful reduction, immobilization becomes crucial for healing. Most patients wear a sling or shoulder immobilizer for 2-6 weeks, depending on their age and injury severity.
Younger patients typically require longer immobilization periods due to higher recurrence risks. Older adults may need shorter periods to prevent shoulder stiffness.
The immobilization period allows torn ligaments and the joint capsule to begin healing. Too much movement during this phase increases the chance of repeat dislocation.
Surgical Treatment Options
Surgery may be necessary when non-surgical dislocated shoulder treatment options fail or complications arise. Arthroscopic repair offers a minimally invasive approach to fix damaged structures.
Open surgical repair involves larger incisions but allows comprehensive reconstruction of severely damaged tissues. Surgeons may use techniques like:
- Bankart Repair – Reattaching torn labrum to the socket rim.
- Capsular Shift – Tightening the loose joint capsule.
- Bone Grafting – Adding bone to shallow sockets.
What Does Recovery and Rehabilitation Involve After a Dislocated Shoulder Treatment
The following outlines what recovery and rehab involve after dislocated shoulder treatment.
Physical Therapy Timeline
Recovery from dislocated shoulder treatment typically follows a structured timeline. The initial phase focuses on pain control and a gentle range of motion exercises.
Week 1-2: Pendulum swings and passive movements.
Week 3-4: Active-assisted range of motion.
Week 6-8: Strengthening exercises begin.
Week 8-12: Return to normal activities.
Physical therapists design specific exercise programs based on individual needs and goals. Athletes may require specialized protocols to return to sports safely.
Strengthening Exercises
Shoulder strengthening forms the foundation of successful recovery. Weak rotator cuff muscles contribute to instability and increase re-injury risk.
Key muscle groups to strengthen include:
- Rotator Cuff Muscles – Provide dynamic stability.
- Scapular Stabilizers – Control shoulder blade movement.
- Deltoid Muscle – Powers arm elevation.
Progressive resistance training helps rebuild strength gradually. Exercises advance from resistance bands to weights as healing progresses.
When Should You Seek Immediate Medical Attention for a Dislocated Shoulder
Certain symptoms require emergency orthopedic care without delay. Severe pain, obvious deformity, and complete loss of arm function indicate probable dislocation.
Numbness or tingling in the hand suggests possible nerve damage. Cold, pale fingers may indicate blood vessel injury requiring urgent dislocated shoulder treatment.
Attempting to relocate the shoulder yourself risks additional damage. Professional medical reduction ensures proper technique and injury assessment.
Get Expert Dislocated Shoulder Treatment in San Antonio, TX
If you are experiencing shoulder pain or suspect a dislocation, prompt evaluation by an experienced orthopedic doctor in San Antonio, TX, can prevent complications and optimize recovery outcomes.
At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, we provide comprehensive shoulder dislocation treatment with board-certified specialists who understand the urgency of proper care. We use advanced technology and techniques to accurately diagnose and treat your shoulder condition, getting you back to your active lifestyle as soon as possible.
Take the first step toward recovery by contacting us today at (210) 692-7400. You can also use our appointment request form to schedule a consultation.
We look forward to serving you!
