The shoulder is one of the body’s most mobile joints and is, therefore, vulnerable to injury. “Dislocation” happens when the head of the upper arm bone pops from the shoulder socket.
A dislocated shoulder, although common, is extremely debilitating considering the shoulder joint is so critical to many daily activities. Recovering from a dislocated shoulder injury often takes a few months with a proper rehabilitation course and treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect you may have a dislocated shoulder, the most important thing is to immediately stop any activities that could aggravate the shoulder joint and see your physician.
If your doctor or therapist diagnoses a dislocated shoulder, they will often ease the bone back into its socket with a process called “reduction.” Reduction involves resetting the ball of the bone back into the shoulder socket using slow, controlled movements to first flex the elbow, then rotate the upper-arm bone.
Dislocated Shoulder Rehab and Recovery
Your doctor or physical therapist will typically recommend rest, ice, and compression to reduce pain and swelling in the joint.
“Rest” often involves keeping the shoulder immobilized with a sling while keeping your wrists and fingers moving to maximize mobility, avoid stiffness, and maintain a healthy blood flow. During dislocated shoulder rehab, some patients also take anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling.
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Typically after a few weeks, your physical therapist or physician will assign several exercises to restore mobility. It is important to start a physical therapy regimen as soon as possible in order to heal better and faster. Pendulum exercises can help recondition the joint’s range of motion, and strengthening exercises can support muscle ability and movement.
The goal of dislocated shoulder rehab is to bring the injured shoulder to its original level of strength and mobility.
Getting Back in the Game
Many doctors generally recommended waiting 8-10 weeks before partaking in shoulder-based activities such as throwing, catching, or weight training.
Even after the rehab course, it is beneficial to continue your cold compression therapy to keep ahead of any future injuries and reduce swelling in the joint after exercise. If you have dislocated your shoulder before, you’re more likely to dislocate it again, so stay mindful when taking part in activities that could lead to a second injury.
This article was updated August 14, 2024.
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