How to Fix a Dislocated Shoulder?

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, causing severe pain, swelling, and limited mobility. This injury can result from falls, sports injuries, or accidents and requires prompt medical attention to avoid complications such as nerve damage, recurrent dislocations, or long-term joint instability.

Understanding how a shoulder dislocation is treated is crucial for safe recovery and regaining full function.
At Lokmanya Hospitals, patients receive specialized care for shoulder dislocations under the guidance of experienced shoulder specialists. As one of the best hospitals for shoulder dislocation in Pune,  Lokmanya Hospitals combines advanced diagnostics, skilled medical intervention, and personalized rehabilitation plans to ensure safe and effective recovery.

What is a dislocated shoulder?

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) slips or pops out of the shoulder socket (glenoid), which is part of the shoulder blade. Since the shoulder joint is one of the most flexible in the human body, it is also the most prone to dislocation. This injury often happens due to sudden trauma, falls, or sports activities that involve forceful arm movement. When the shoulder is dislocated, it can cause severe pain, visible deformity, swelling, bruising, and an inability to move the arm.

How to Treat a Dislocated Shoulder

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) comes out of the shoulder socket, often due to trauma or a fall. Prompt and proper management is essential to prevent long-term complications, such as joint instability or nerve damage. Here’s a detailed explanation of each step in treating a dislocated shoulder:

1. Immediate First Aid

Immediate care is crucial to reduce pain and prevent further injury. The affected shoulder should be immobilized using a sling or supportive bandage to keep it stable. Applying ice helps minimize swelling and relieve pain. It is important not to attempt to pop the shoulder back into place without medical supervision, as improper handling can cause nerve or tissue damage. Keeping the arm supported and avoiding unnecessary movement helps prevent complications until professional care is available.

2. Medical Assessment

A thorough medical evaluation by a specialist is essential to determine the severity of the dislocation. The doctor examines the shoulder for ligament damage, fractures, nerve injury, or vascular complications. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, help confirm the dislocation and rule out fractures, while an MRI may be ordered to assess soft tissue injuries, including ligaments and tendons. This assessment ensures that the appropriate treatment plan is selected.

3. Reduction Procedure

Shoulder reduction is the process of gently repositioning the upper arm bone back into the shoulder socket. This procedure must be performed by a trained physician to prevent further injury, including nerve or tissue damage. Pain relief, such as analgesics, or mild sedation is often administered to reduce discomfort and allow proper muscle relaxation during the procedure. Correct technique ensures that the shoulder is safely restored to its natural position.

4. Immobilization and Rest

After the shoulder has been successfully reduced, it is typically immobilized with a sling for 1–3 weeks depending on the severity and type of dislocation. Immobilization helps the ligaments, tendons, and surrounding soft tissues heal properly and reduces the risk of re-dislocation. During this period, it is important to avoid strenuous activities or movements that could stress the joint.

5. Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy

Once initial healing occurs, physiotherapy is critical for restoring shoulder function. Range-of-motion exercises gradually improve flexibility, while strengthening exercises for the shoulder muscles stabilize the joint and prevent future dislocations. A structured rehabilitation program guided by a specialist ensures long-term joint stability, improves strength, and helps patients regain confidence in shoulder movements.

6. Surgery (If Required)

In cases of recurrent dislocations, severe ligament damage, or associated fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore shoulder stability. Surgery may involve repairing torn ligaments, tightening the joint capsule, or reconstructing damaged tissue. Post-surgery rehabilitation is crucial for regaining full shoulder function, building strength, and preventing future injuries.

Why Choose  Lokmanya Hospitals for Shoulder Dislocation Treatment?

Lokmanya Hospitals is recognized as one of the best hospitals for shoulder dislocation in Pune, offering expert care for all types of shoulder injuries. The hospital provides advanced diagnostic tools, safe reduction procedures, and structured rehabilitation programs under the supervision of highly experienced doctors.

Our team of best doctors for shoulder dislocation in Pune ensures precise treatment, minimal discomfort, and a faster recovery. With a patient-focused approach,  Lokmanya Hospitals combines emergency care, rehabilitation, and long-term guidance to restore shoulder mobility and prevent recurring injuries.

Conclusion

A shoulder dislocation is a painful injury that requires immediate and professional care. Timely reduction, immobilization, and structured rehabilitation are key to restoring full function and preventing recurrence.

Lokmanya Hospitals offers expert evaluation, advanced treatment, and personalized rehabilitation, making it the preferred choice for patients seeking the best hospital for shoulder dislocation in Pune. With skilled doctors, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive care, patients can recover safely and regain full shoulder strength.

FAQs

1. How is a shoulder dislocation treated?
Through reduction, immobilization, physiotherapy, and in severe cases, surgery.
2. Can a dislocated shoulder fix itself?
No, professional medical treatment is necessary to avoid complications.
3. How long does recovery take after shoulder dislocation?
Recovery typically takes 4–12 weeks depending on injury severity and adherence to physiotherapy.
4. Can shoulder dislocations recur?
Yes, without proper rehabilitation, recurrent dislocations are possible.
5. When is surgery required for a shoulder dislocation?
Surgery may be needed for repeated dislocations or severe ligament or bone injuries.
6. What are the risks of improper reduction?
Nerve damage, chronic instability, joint deformity, or fractures.
7. How can I prevent future shoulder dislocations?
Strengthening shoulder muscles, proper exercise techniques, and avoiding high-risk activities without protection.
8. Why choose  Lokmanya Hospitals for shoulder dislocation?
They offer expert doctors, advanced diagnostics, safe reduction procedures, personalized rehab, and comprehensive care in Pune.