Dislocated shoulder

Diagnosis

A doctor examines the affected area to evaluate for nerve or blood vessel injury, discomfort, edema, or deformity. The dislocation may be visible on an X-ray of the shoulder joint, which may also reveal shattered bones or other shoulder joint injuries.

Treatment

Treatment for a dislocated shoulder may include:

• Closed reduction. During this procedure, some delicate movements could be used to assist realign the shoulder bones. Before manipulating the shoulder bones, a muscle relaxant, sedative, or, in rare cases, a general anesthesia may be administered, depending on the intensity of the discomfort and swelling. Severe discomfort should instantly subside once the shoulder bones are put back in position.
• Surgery. Those who experience frequent shoulder dislocations despite strengthening and rehabilitation may benefit from surgery if their shoulder joints or ligaments are weak. Rarely, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged blood vessels or nerves. In young athletes, surgical intervention may also lower their chance of re-injury.
• Immobilization. Following a close reduction, the shoulder would be prevented from moving for a few weeks by donning a specialized splint or sling.
• Medication. While the shoulder heals, a painkiller or a muscle relaxant may make you more comfortable.
• Rehabilitation. When the splint or sling is no longer required, a rehabilitation program can help the shoulder joint regain its range of motion, strength, and stability.

For a few weeks, a relatively minor shoulder dislocation without significant nerve or tissue injury should become better. Before resuming regular activities, one must have regained strength, a pain-free range of motion, and full range of motion. The shoulder joint could become re-injured if exercise is resumed too soon after a shoulder dislocation.