Dislocated Shoulder – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
A doctor checks the shoulder for swelling, tenderness, deformity, and tests for numbness or signs of nerve damage.
They often order an X-ray to see if the upper arm bone (humerus) has moved from the glenoid or if there are broken bones.
These steps help find injuries such as complete dislocation, partial dislocation (subluxation), and other related problems like shoulder instability.
In some cases, additional imaging tests may be needed. A CT scan can provide a more detailed view of bone injuries, especially if fractures are suspected.
An MRI scan may be used to assess soft tissue damage, such as torn ligaments, tendons, or the labrum around the shoulder socket.
The doctor may also perform specific physical tests—like the apprehension test or relocation test—to check for joint instability after the shoulder is back in place.
Treatment
Doctors often start treating a dislocated shoulder with closed reduction, gently moving the shoulder bones back into place.
If pain and swelling are present, they may use a sedative or muscle relaxant to help the procedure go smoothly. After this, pain usually gets much better right away.
After realignment, medical staff immobilize the shoulder. The person may need to wear a sling or splint for a few weeks to prevent the shoulder from moving while it heals.
During this time, doctors may prescribe pain relievers or muscle relaxants for comfort.
Once immobilization ends, patients focus on rehabilitation. Physical therapists guide exercises to restore range of motion, build muscle strength around the joint, and improve flexibility.
These activities help the rotator cuff and other shoulder muscles support the joint and lower the risk of another injury.
People who have repeated shoulder dislocations or weak joints may need arthroscopic surgery or another type of shoulder stabilization surgery. Surgeons may also operate if blood vessels or nerves are damaged.
A brief guide for shoulder recovery:
| Step | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Closed Reduction | Shoulder moved back into place |
| Immobilization | Sling or splint to limit movement |
| Medication | Pain relievers or muscle relaxants if needed |
| Rehabilitation | Exercises for flexibility and strength |
| Surgery (if needed) | Surgical repair for stability or damage |
Returning to normal activities too early can increase the risk of another dislocation. Patients should reach full motion without pain and restore strength before resuming sports or heavy tasks.
Everyday Care and Helpful Tips
People recovering from a dislocated shoulder benefit from certain steps at home. They should rest their shoulders and avoid activities that caused the injury, like overhead sports or heavy lifting.
Limiting painful movements helps prevent more damage and supports healing.
Cold then warm therapy is useful. In the first day or two, applying an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables for 15–20 minutes every few hours can decrease swelling and pain.
Once the initial swelling goes down, gentle heat may soothe muscles and improve blood flow.
Pain relief is important for comfort in the early stages. Medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen, or aspirin may help—just follow package instructions.
Staying active in a gentle way prevents the shoulder from becoming stiff. After a period of rest, doctors may recommend gentle range-of-motion exercises. Not moving the joint at all can lead to stiffness or a frozen shoulder.
Quick Reference Table
| Step | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Rest the shoulder | Reduces strain |
| Apply cold, then heat | Lowers swelling, eases discomfort |
| Take pain relievers | Manages pain so daily tasks are easier |
| Gentle movement | Maintains flexibility, prevents stiffness |
Once strength and movement return, ongoing shoulder stretches and stability exercises lower the risk of a repeat injury—especially for those who play sports or have had shoulder injuries before.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps to Take Before Your Appointment
Bring detailed notes about the injury. Write down how it happened, your symptoms, and any changes over time. List all current medications and supplements you use, including doses.
Bring a brief summary of your past health issues. This information helps the healthcare provider identify any risk factors that might affect healing.
Prepare a set of questions to ask the provider. Here are some ideas:
| Question | Purpose |
|---|---|
| What kind of injury do I have? | Understand your diagnosis. |
| What tests are necessary? | Learn about the assessment process. |
| What treatment options are available? | Compare possible solutions. |
| How long does recovery usually take? | Set realistic expectations. |
| Will my activities need to change? | Find out about restrictions. |
| How can I lower my risk of getting hurt again? | Get tips on prevention. |
Doctor’s Questions and What They Could Discuss
The healthcare provider, such as a primary care doctor or orthopedic specialist, will likely ask about your pain, symptoms, and how the injury occurred. Expect questions like:
- How severe is the pain in your shoulder?
- Are there other symptoms, such as numbness or tingling?
- Can you move your arm at all?
- Have you ever injured this shoulder before?
