A dislocated shoulder is a frequent injury, particularly in athletes and those who are very active. The shoulder joint is highly flexible, allowing for a broad range of movement, but this flexibility also increases the risk of dislocation. A shoulder joint dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone slips out of its socket, requiring prompt medical attention. This injury can be very painful and needs quick medical attention to avoid complications. 

Men have shoulder dislocations more often than women. Research shows that 72-86% of shoulder dislocations happen to men, especially during sports. You may have seen professional sportspersons readjusting their dislocated shoulders right there on the field. But you should never do it if you are experiencing one.

 Appropriate caution and medical help is required to reset your dislocated shoulder. So, what should you and should you not do? In this article, let’s discuss how to treat a dislocated shoulder and the essential do’s and don’ts during a shoulder dislocation recovery.

What Is A Dislocated Shoulder?

A shoulder dislocation happens when the top of the arm bone is forced out of its socket, usually from a sudden impact like a fall, car accident, or sports injury. There are different types: the most common is when the bone moves forward, less common when it moves backward, and rare when it moves downward. 

This injury can cause severe pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the shoulder, often making it look deformed and causing the arm to feel weak or numb. Quick and proper treatment is important to avoid complications and help the shoulder heal faster. The best thing to do if you have a dislocated shoulder is to rest it as much as possible and get medical help. Here are the do’s and don’ts you should follow.

First Aid for Dislocated Shoulder: Do’s and Don’ts

When dealing with a dislocated shoulder, it’s essential to follow certain steps to ensure the injury is handled correctly. Here are the do’s and don’ts for first aid for dislocated shoulder:

Do’s:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect a shoulder dislocation, seek medical help right away. A healthcare professional can properly diagnose the injury and provide the necessary treatment. Delaying treatment can lead to complications, such as nerve or blood vessel damage.
   
• Immobilize the Shoulder: Keep the injured arm in a comfortable position, preferably against the body. Use a sling or a makeshift bandage to immobilize the shoulder and prevent further movement. This helps reduce pain and prevents additional injury.
   
• Cold Compress: Use an ice pack on the injured shoulder to help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Wrap the ice pack in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin, and apply it for 15-20 minutes every hour.
   
• Stabilise: Keep the injured person calm and have them rest their shoulder. Avoid any movements that could worsen the injury. If the person is in shock, help them lie down and elevate their legs slightly.
   
• Monitor for Signs of Shock: Shock can occur after a severe injury. Signs include pale skin, rapid breathing, sweating, and weakness. If you notice these symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Don’ts:

• Don’t Try to Pop the Shoulder Back in Place: Never attempt to relocate the shoulder on your own. This can cause more harm, including damaging the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Always wait for a healthcare professional to handle the relocation.
   
• Don’t Apply Heat: While ice is helpful for reducing swelling, heat can increase blood flow to the injured area and worsen the swelling. Avoid using heat packs or warm compresses on the dislocated shoulder.
   
• Don’t Move the Arm: Avoid moving the injured arm or forcing it into a position that causes pain. Any unnecessary movement can exacerbate the injury and prolong the recovery process.
   
• Don’t Ignore the Injury: A shoulder dislocation is a serious injury that requires medical attention. Ignoring it or delaying treatment can lead to chronic instability, repeated dislocations, or even permanent damage to the shoulder joint.
   
• Don’t Self-Medicate: While over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain, avoid taking any medication without consulting a doctor, especially if there’s a risk of allergic reactions or interactions with other medications.

How to Treat a Dislocated Shoulder

Dislocated shoulder treatment generally involves prompt care, medical attention, and a structured rehabilitation plan. 

• Reduction: The process starts by carefully moving the upper arm bone back into its proper position in the shoulder socket. A healthcare professional usually performs this procedure. They may give medication to relax the muscles and reduce pain before gently moving the bone back into place.
   
• Immobilization: Once the shoulder is back in place, the arm is typically secured in a sling or shoulder immobilizer to keep it stable and allow the tissues to heal. The amount of time the arm stays immobilized depends on how severe the injury is and the patient’s overall health.
   
• Pain Management: Pain relief is an essential part of treatment. Doctors may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter options to manage discomfort during the initial recovery phase.
   
• Physical Therapy: Once the shoulder begins to heal, physical therapy is crucial for regaining strength, flexibility, and range of motion. A physical therapist will guide the patient through exercises designed to restore normal function and prevent future dislocations.
   
• Surgery: In some cases, particularly if the shoulder joint dislocation is severe or if there is significant damage to the surrounding ligaments, surgery may be required. Surgical options can include repairing torn ligaments or tightening the shoulder capsule to prevent future dislocations.

Shoulder Dislocation Recovery: What to Expect

Recovery from a dislocated shoulder can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment received. Here’s what to expect during shoulder dislocation recovery:

• Initial Recovery Phase: The first few weeks after the injury focus on pain management and immobilization. During this time, it’s essential to rest the shoulder and avoid any activities that could strain the joint.
   
• Rehabilitation Phase: Physical therapy typically begins after the initial recovery phase. This stage involves gradually reintroducing movement to the shoulder, strengthening the muscles, and improving flexibility. The duration of physical therapy can vary, usually lasting from a few weeks to several months.
   
• Return to Normal Activities: Most people can return to their regular activities within 3 to 6 months, depending on the injury’s severity and their adherence to the rehabilitation program. High-risk activities, such as contact sports, may require additional time before resuming.
   
• Preventing Future Dislocations: After recovery, it’s important to take steps to prevent future dislocations. This may include strengthening the shoulder muscles, avoiding risky activities, and using protective gear during sports.

Conclusion

A dislocated shoulder is a serious injury that requires immediate attention and proper care. Understanding the dos and don’ts of handling a dislocated shoulder can significantly impact your recovery and help prevent further complications. If you're dealing with a dislocated shoulder, it's essential to consult an orthopedic doctor in Delhi for proper treatment and guidance.

Check out MASSH for more information about the recovery process and treatment of a dislocated shoulder. Our experts can help you reset your shoulder and help manage the pain while giving you a complete timeline for your recovery. Check out our website to learn more about orthopaedic treatments at MASSH.