How to Treat and Prevent Shoulder Dislocation
Shoulder dislocation is the most common major joint injury you can suffer from. In fact, according to Medscape, shoulder dislocations account for almost 50 percent of all joint dislocations. No other joint in the body provides as much movement, but, unfortunately, not much stability. The instability of the shoulder joint makes it more susceptible to dislocation. Sports medicine doctors report that athletes are prime candidates for shoulder dislocations, but the injury can strike almost any active person. Many reduction and treatment methods are available for shoulder dislocation. Your doctor can help you determine the best treatment and prevention plan for your situation.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Dislocation
Deciding the best treatment option for your injury involves analyzing several key contributors:
- What part of the shoulder was injured?
- How many dislocations have you suffered from before?
- What activities you are engaged in?
- How old are you?
You and your doctor will then decide the best treatment for your situation. Some of the treatment options currently available include:
Repositioning the Dislocation
The first step to resuming normal activities is to properly reposition the joint. This is referred to as reducing the dislocation. The procedures for repositioning the shoulder vary between doctors, but the end goal is the same: to help the ball of the joint slide back into position without causing more damage. X-rays are used to ascertain the position of the shoulder and to look for any other injuries. Following repositioning the dislocation, your shoulder will be placed in a sling to rest until the next stage of treatment.
Wearing a Sling
Slings allow you to rest your shoulder and give the swelling and inflammation time to recede. Your doctor will give you exercises to help prepare the shoulder for a return to prior activity levels. The length of time you wear the sling depends on how your body responds to the exercises and how long it takes for you to heal, but the average time frame is between one to three weeks.
Undergoing Immobilization in External Rotation
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, immobilization in external rotation may more effectively reduce shoulder dislocation recurrence rates, providing a non-surgical alternative for first-time shoulder dislocations. The goal of this procedure is to return the torn ligament to a normal position so it can heal with the correct alignment. If this is achieved, repeat dislocations are less likely to occur. Although the results are promising, this treatment method isn’t commonly used due to the difficulty of performing it and the challenges patients have complying with the post-treatment brace.
Devoting Time to Physical Therapy
The goal of physical therapy is to strengthen the muscles that support the shoulder. Physical therapy also focuses on increasing shoulder mobility so you can return to normal activities. While physical therapy is a viable treatment, it doesn’t decrease the odds of a repeat dislocation. Most physicians attempt the least invasive options first, including physical therapy, before proceeding to surgery.
Wearing a Brace
Shoulder braces can assist you after a shoulder dislocation in a few different ways. Not only do they support the shoulder and give rest to injured tendons, but they also offer compression to the skin and tissues. Many athletes who suffer a dislocation are encouraged to wear a brace to limit the range of motion in the limb and prevent a second, season-ending dislocation. Studies also show that a placebo effect may allow athletes to feel more supported and confident by wearing the brace after injury. Depending on the sport, athletes may or may not be able to wear a brace during play. Braces restrict mobility so certain actions aren’t possible.
Having Surgery
Non-operative care should be the first route of treatment for shoulder dislocations. Most patients find success with resting the shoulder and undergoing physical therapy. However, surgery is commonly chosen as an initial treatment option in young athletes because of the high chance of repeat dislocations. Repeat shoulder injuries have been known to cause different forms of arthritis. Surgery is encouraged to help prevent this and other injuries from repeat dislocations. The most common surgery is one to repair damaged ligaments in the front of the shoulder joint. This procedure is called a Bankart Repair. By fixing these ligaments, the structures are better able to hold the shoulder in its normal position.
Prevent Shoulder Dislocation
To help prevent shoulder dislocation, many athletes opt for a strength-training plan that focuses on strengthening the muscles of your rotator cuff, the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis. Talk with your doctor about specific exercises before starting any preventative care regimen.
The Mayo Clinic advises the following steps to prevent dislocating the shoulder:
- Take precautions to avoid falls.
- Wear protective gear when you play contact sports.
- Exercise regularly to maintain strength and flexibility in your joints and muscles.
It’s important to note that once a shoulder joint has been dislocated, you may be more likely to suffer from recurrent shoulder dislocations. To prevent a recurrence, discuss with your physician exercises you can incorporate to increase strength and stability in your shoulder joint.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
If you’re interested in learning more about preventive measures for shoulder injuries, or if you’re currently suffering from one, contact the New Haven office for assistance. Our team can give you the tools you need for a healthier, happier you. Call (260) 493-6565 for a free consultation or contact us online. Consultations can be done online, via the phone or in person.
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