If you're looking to take control of your health and well-being, scheduling a medical appointment is a great first step. Whether it's a routine check-up, a specialist consultation, or a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider, it's important to prioritize your health and take the time to address any concerns or questions you may have.
When the shoulder dislocates, the severe pain and inability to move the arm are clear signals that immediate medical attention is needed.
Treatment of dislocation does not stop at returning the joint to its place; it extends through several crucial stages to ensure complete healing and to prevent recurrence. In this article, we will learn about the different stages of shoulder dislocation treatment.
Shoulder dislocation is an injury that occurs when the head of the humerus slips out of its socket in the shoulder joint. This condition is extremely painful and results in loss of the ability to move the arm. The shoulder is considered the most prone joint to dislocation due to its wide range of motion compared to other joints in the body.
Before reaching a doctor, there are basic steps that must be taken to protect the joint and reduce pain:
Do not attempt to move it: Above all, do not try to push or return the shoulder back into place. Such attempts may increase damage to ligaments, blood vessels, and nerves.
Immobilization: Keep the arm in a comfortable position using a sling or even a simple scarf. This helps reduce pain and prevents accidental movement.
Cold compresses: Apply ice packs wrapped in a cloth to the shoulder. Cold helps reduce swelling and provides temporary pain relief.
Once you reach the clinic or hospital, the doctor will evaluate the condition to decide the best treatment:
Clinical examination and X-rays: The doctor examines the shoulder to determine the extent of dislocation and rule out complications. X-rays are taken to confirm the diagnosis and ensure there are no fractures.
Closed reduction: This is the first step of treatment. Using gentle and controlled maneuvers, the doctor repositions the head of the humerus back into the socket. Painkillers or muscle relaxants may be given to make the process easier.
After the shoulder is repositioned, proper immobilization is necessary:
Using a sling: The doctor provides a sling to immobilize the shoulder and prevent movement. The length of time varies depending on the severity of the dislocation, but usually lasts several weeks to allow ligaments and tissues to heal.
This stage is the cornerstone of full recovery and should not be neglected. After the sling is removed, a physical therapy program begins:
Restoring range of motion: Light exercises are introduced to restore normal joint mobility without overstraining it.
Strengthening muscles: Focus is placed on exercises to strengthen shoulder muscles, especially those responsible for stabilizing the joint. This is essential to prevent future dislocations.
Safe return to activity: A physiotherapist helps you create a plan for gradually returning to your daily and sports activities safely.
Surgery is not required in all cases, but it becomes the best option in certain situations:
Recurrent shoulder dislocation: If dislocation occurs more than once, especially in young people and athletes, doctors may recommend surgery to repair loosened ligaments.
Tissue damage: If there are associated injuries such as torn ligaments, tendon damage, or injury to nerves and blood vessels, surgery is necessary to repair them.
Successful treatment depends on the patient’s cooperation with the doctor and adherence to rehabilitation instructions. Patience and regular follow-up are key to restoring the shoulder to its normal condition and regaining full strength.
Prevention is an important part of treatment, especially since many patients are at risk of repeated dislocations if they do not follow rehabilitation and prevention advice. Some key tips include:
Commit to physical therapy: Strengthening shoulder and arm muscles with regular exercises helps stabilize the joint and prevent recurrence.
Avoid sudden movements: Do not lift heavy weights or make violent shoulder movements, particularly in the first months after treatment.
Use protective gear: In contact sports such as football or wrestling, wearing a brace or shoulder guard reduces the risk of injury.
Improve flexibility: Regular stretching exercises for the shoulder help maintain natural joint movement without strain.
Gradual return to activity: Do not rush back into sports or heavy work before consulting your doctor or physiotherapist.
Pay attention to early signs: If you feel pain or instability in the shoulder, stop immediately and consult your doctor.
Shoulder dislocation is a common and painful injury that requires proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent recurrence or serious complications.
Treatment typically progresses from reduction (returning the joint to place), to immobilization and physical therapy, and in some cases to surgical intervention.
Commitment to a treatment plan, performing rehabilitation exercises, and following medical instructions are all crucial to regaining shoulder strength, restoring full movement, and preventing future dislocations.
