How to Treat and Recover from a Dislocated Shoulder: A Step-by-Step Guide

A dislocated shoulder is one of the most common joint injuries, especially for athletes involved in contact sports. The shoulder joint, being the most mobile joint in the body, is also highly susceptible to dislocations. Whether your shoulder pops out of place during a tackle in rugby or from a fall, knowing how to treat and recover from a dislocation is crucial to restoring mobility and preventing future injuries. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of treating a dislocated shoulder, when surgery might be necessary, and how to prevent future dislocations.

Understanding Shoulder Dislocations

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) is forced out of the socket of the shoulder blade. This can happen from a direct blow to the shoulder, a fall, or twisting the arm with excessive force. Most shoulder dislocations are anterior, meaning the humerus slips forward, but it can also dislocate backwards or downwards, though these are less common.

Symptoms of a Dislocated Shoulder:

• Intense pain in the shoulder joint
• A visibly deformed or out-of-place shoulder
• Swelling or bruising
• Inability to move the arm
• Numbness or tingling in the arm

If you suspect a dislocated shoulder, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to pop the shoulder back into place on your own, as this could cause further damage.

Step 1: Initial Treatment for a Dislocated Shoulder

The first step in treating a dislocated shoulder is to have a healthcare professional perform a closed reduction—a procedure to manually move the humerus back into the socket. This is often done under sedation or with pain relief, depending on the severity of the dislocation. Once the shoulder is back in place, you’ll likely feel immediate relief, though pain and swelling may persist.

After the shoulder has been reduced, your doctor will likely recommend:

1. Immobilisation: You may need to wear a sling for a few days or weeks to prevent further movement and allow the tissues around the joint to heal. The length of time depends on the severity of the dislocation.

2. Icing and Pain Management: Applying ice to the shoulder for 15-20 minutes every few hours can help reduce swelling and relieve pain. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, can also help manage discomfort.

3. X-rays or MRI: To ensure no fractures or additional damage occurred, your doctor may order imaging tests. An MRI can be useful in detecting soft tissue injuries such as tears to the rotator cuff or labrum.

Step 2: Rehabilitation and Recovery

Once the initial pain and swelling have subsided, rehabilitation is key to restoring strength and range of motion in the shoulder. A physiotherapist can guide you through exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, helping to stabilise the joint and prevent future dislocations.

Rehabilitation Phases:

1. Range of Motion Exercises: In the early stages of rehab, the focus will be on gentle stretches and movements to regain flexibility in the shoulder without stressing the joint. Pendulum swings and wall walks are common exercises at this stage.

2. Strengthening Exercises: As your shoulder heals, you’ll gradually introduce resistance exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and stabilise the shoulder. Exercises such as external rotations, isometric holds, and scapular stabilisation are crucial in this phase.

3. Functional Training: For athletes, the final stage of rehab involves functional training tailored to your sport. This helps you regain confidence in your shoulder and prepares you for returning to high-impact activities like throwing, tackling, or lifting.

Rehabilitation can take anywhere from 4-12 weeks, depending on the severity of the injury and your specific recovery needs. It’s important not to rush the process to avoid re-injury.

Step 3: When Surgery is Necessary

In some cases, particularly if the shoulder has dislocated multiple times or if there is significant damage to the ligaments or cartilage, surgery may be required. Surgery is usually recommended for patients who have had recurring dislocations or for those whose shoulder remains unstable after rehabilitation.

Types of Shoulder Surgery:

1. Arthroscopic Repair: This minimally invasive procedure uses small incisions and a camera to repair damaged tissues, such as a torn labrum, that are causing instability in the shoulder.

2. Open Surgery: In more severe cases, an open surgical procedure may be needed to reconstruct the ligaments or bone structure of the shoulder.

Surgery is followed by a period of immobilisation and then rehabilitation, similar to non-surgical treatment but often with a longer recovery timeline.

Step 4: Preventing Future Dislocations

Once you’ve recovered from a shoulder dislocation, it’s important to take steps to prevent future dislocations, especially if you’re involved in high-risk sports like rugby, football, or basketball.

Tips for Prevention:

1. Strengthen the Rotator Cuff: Regularly perform exercises that target the rotator cuff muscles, as they play a critical role in stabilising the shoulder joint. This can include resistance band exercises and weightlifting under guidance.

2. Improve Shoulder Flexibility: Maintaining flexibility in the shoulder muscles and tendons can help prevent overstretching or tearing, reducing the risk of dislocation.

3. Use Protective Gear: In contact sports, wearing appropriate padding or braces can help protect your shoulder from injury during tackles or falls.

4. Avoid Overuse: Be mindful of overworking the shoulder joint, especially after returning to activity. Gradually increase your activity level and avoid excessive repetitive motions that strain the shoulder.

Treating and Recovering from a Dislocated Shoulder

Recovering from a dislocated shoulder involves a combination of immediate treatment, proper rehabilitation, and preventive measures. With the right approach, most patients can regain full mobility and return to their regular activities, including sports. At MSK Doctors, we provide expert care to guide you through the entire recovery process, from initial diagnosis to rehabilitation. If you’ve experienced a shoulder dislocation or want to prevent future injuries, contact us to learn more about your treatment options.

FAQ Section:

1. How long does it take to recover from a dislocated shoulder? Recovery can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the severity of the dislocation and the individual’s rehabilitation plan. Surgery may extend recovery time.

2. Can I return to sports after a dislocated shoulder? Yes, most patients can return to sports after completing rehabilitation. It’s important to follow your physiotherapist’s guidance and avoid rushing back too soon to prevent re-injury.

3. How can I tell if my shoulder is dislocated? Common signs include intense pain, a visibly out-of-place shoulder, swelling, and difficulty moving the arm. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a dislocation.

4. Is surgery always necessary for a dislocated shoulder? No, surgery is not always necessary. Most first-time dislocations can be treated with a closed reduction and rehabilitation. Surgery is usually recommended for recurring dislocations or severe damage.

5. What exercises can help prevent shoulder dislocations? Strengthening the rotator cuff muscles and improving shoulder flexibility through exercises such as external rotations, shoulder presses, and stretches can help prevent future dislocations.

6. What should I do if my shoulder dislocates again? If your shoulder dislocates again, immobilise the joint, apply ice to reduce swelling, and seek medical attention immediately. Multiple dislocations may require further evaluation and possibly surgery.