How to Fix a Dislocated Shoulder: Steps & Recovery Tips

The shoulder is one of the body's most versatile and mobile joints, allowing a wide range of movements. However, this mobility makes it susceptible to injuries, such as dislocation. A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) is forced out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). This condition can cause severe pain and limit mobility, significantly impacting your daily life.
Shoulder dislocation is a common injury caused by trauma, such as falls, sports injuries, or accidents. At the best orthopedic hospital in Noida, you can receive expert care for shoulder dislocation treatment, ensuring effective recovery and prevention of further complications. Let’s explore a step-by-step guide to understanding, managing, and recovering from a dislocated shoulder.

Contact us today at +91 9667064100 to learn more about our personalized shoulder dislocation treatments!
 

Understanding Shoulder Dislocation

What is a Dislocated Shoulder?

A dislocated shoulder is when the head of the humerus is forced out of the glenoid cavity. This injury can be classified into three main types:
 

• Anterior Dislocation: The most common type, where the humerus moves forward out of the socket.
   
• Posterior Dislocation: Less common, occurs when the humerus moves backward.
   
• Inferior Dislocation: Rare is when the humerus moves downward.

Causes and Risk Factors

1. Trauma: High-impact events, such as falls, car accidents, or contact sports, are leading causes of trauma.

2. Overuse or Repetitive Strain: Activities that place heavy stress on the shoulder joint.

3. Joint Hypermobility: Some individuals have naturally loose joints, increasing the risk of dislocation of the shoulder.

Symptoms

• Severe shoulder pain.
   
• A visible deformity, such as the shoulder is forced out of place.
   
• Swelling, bruising, and restricted range of motion of the shoulder.
   
• Tingling or numbness in the arm and hand.

Steps to Fix a Dislocated Shoulder

Initial Response
 

• Stop Any Activity: Immediately stop all movement of the injured arm to prevent further damage.
   
• Support the Arm: Perfectly support the arm using a sling, a folded cloth, or any soft material to stop your hand movement and reduce pain.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

1. Importance of Professional Care: Avoid attempting to fix the dislocation yourself, as improper handling of the injury, damage surrounding tissues, or harm nerves.

2. Imaging Tests: Healthcare professionals may perform X-rays or MRIs to assess the extent of the dislocation, confirm proper alignment, and check for fractures or additional injuries.

Reduction Procedure (Performed by a Medical Professional)

1. Closed Reduction: An orthopedic doctor will carefully manipulate the shoulder back into place without surgery. This procedure is performed with the aid of sedatives or muscle relaxants to ensure comfort and prevent muscle spasms.

2. Risks of Self-Reduction: Attempt to relocate the shoulder without a healthcare professional’s supervision can lead to serious complications, including nerve damage or further dislocation.

Post-Reduction Care

1. Immobilization: After the shoulder is repositioned, you’ll need to use a sling or immobilizer to restrict movement and allow the joint to heal.

2. Pain Relief: Doctors may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter NSAIDs to manage discomfort and inflammation.

3. Rest: It’s essential to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, or sudden arm movements for a prescribed recovery period to support proper healing.

These steps under professional guidance, can ensure a safer and perfect recovery from a dislocated shoulder.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Physical Therapy
 

• Exercise Regimen: Gradually restore shoulder strength, mobility, and stability with targeted exercises guided by a physiotherapist.
   
• Progressive Recovery: Gradually increase activity levels under doctor’s supervision.

Preventive Measures
 

• Strengthen shoulder muscles to stabilize the joint.
   
• Avoid repetitive strain and heavy lifting.
   
• Use protective gear during high-risk sports or activities.

When Surgery May Be Needed
 

• Recurring dislocations or severe ligament and tissue damage may need surgical intervention.
   
• Surgical Options: Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure to repair damaged tissues and stabilize the shoulder.

Tips for Shoulder Health

1. Perform regular exercises to maintain shoulder strength and flexibility.

2. Warm up before engaging in physical activities.

3. Avoid wrong arm positions and excessive lifting.

Meet the Best Orthopedic Surgeons at Felix Hospitals for Shoulder Dislocation Treatment

At Felix Hospitals, our team of skilled orthopedic surgeons provides the best care for shoulder dislocation treatment. Meet our experts:
 

• Dr. Piyush Kumar Singh: Renowned for his expertise in treating complex shoulder injuries with personalized care.
   
• Dr. Keshav Goel: Specializes in minimally invasive techniques to ensure faster recovery and optimal outcomes.
   
• Dr. Binay Kumar Sahu: A seasoned specialist in managing acute and chronic shoulder conditions with a patient-centric approach.
   
• Dr. Varun Aggarwal: Focuses on advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments for shoulder dislocations and related injuries.

These experts work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back! Schedule your consultation with our expert orthopedic team at Felix Hospitals today for world-class care and recovery.

Conclusion

A dislocated shoulder requires the best medical attention to prevent complications and ensure a smooth recovery. Seeking treatment from experienced orthopedic surgeons at Felix Hospitals ensures the best outcomes through accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and personalized rehabilitation plans.

Don’t let shoulder dislocation limit your lifestyle—consult the experts at Felix Hospitals today for comprehensive care and prevention strategies.

FAQs on Shoulder Dislocation Treatment

1. What should I do immediately after a shoulder dislocation?
Ans: Stop all activities immediately, support the arm with a sling or cloth, and seek medical attention without attempting to fix the dislocation yourself.

2. Can a dislocated shoulder heal on its own without medical intervention?
Ans: No, a dislocated shoulder requires medical evaluation and treatment. Without proper care, it may result in long-term complications like chronic instability or nerve damage.

3. How long does it take to recover from a shoulder dislocation?
Ans: Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the dislocation, but it typically takes 4 to 12 weeks. Physical therapy is crucial for a full recovery.

4. When is surgery necessary for a dislocated shoulder?
Ans: Surgery may be needed for recurrent dislocations, severe ligament damage, or if non-surgical treatments fail to stabilize the shoulder joint.

5. What are the risks of trying to fix a dislocated shoulder at home?
Ans: Self-reduction can cause serious complications, including nerve damage, blood vessel injury, and further dislocation, making professional care essential.

6. Can physical therapy completely restore my shoulder after a dislocation?
Ans: Yes, physical therapy is highly effective in restoring strength, stability, and mobility to the shoulder. It also helps prevent future dislocations when done consistently.

7. Why choose Felix Hospitals for shoulder dislocation treatment?
Ans: Felix Hospitals offers comprehensive care with expert orthopedic surgeons, advanced diagnostic tools, and personalized treatment plans to ensure optimal recovery.