Shoulder Dislocation
A shoulder dislocation is usually via a traumatic/forceful injury, including a forceful knock or landing awkwardly onto the arm or shoulder. Shoulder dislocations may also be caused by instability which is more common (however definitively) with history of previous dislocation.
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Additional Information
Home Treatments
- Early stages:
- Ice regularly to minimise inflammation
- A sling is often used also to protect shoulder / for pain relief. Remove sling when completely resting.
Professional Medical Treatment
- If shoulder does automatically relocate, it is very important to consult a trained medical professional (usually in hospital). Emergency staff should first x-ray to clear a bony fracture. Professional relocation of the shoulder joint minimises the risk of damaging extremely important nerves / vessels to prevent permanent damage
- Your physiotherapist may use a variety of techniques to settle your shoulder and begin to restore function. This may include:
- Providing a sling or taping for support. Depending on type of dislocation, sling may be for 3 – 4 weeks
- Massage / dry needling techniques
- Exercise rehabilitation
In young athletes with recurrent dislocations, a shoulder arthroscopy surgery should be considered.
Physical Therapy Exercises
- Early exercises address shoulder range of motion. These are called pendulum exercises (bending over a table or bed and gently swinging arm in varied directions
- Progression to range exercises against gravity when able.
- Early strengthening exercises when able to address:
- rotator cuff muscles
- scapula stabilising muscles
Prevention
- Prevention will include restoration of normal function and range of the shoulder
- Return to sport-specific demands
- There is a high (almost 80%) chance of reoccurrence in populations under 25 years of age.