Dislocated Shoulder Recovery

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the ball, or the end of the upper arm bone separates from the shoulder socket. It is a very painful condition that may also include injured ligaments, tendons and nerves in the shoulder.

Cause

Dislocated shoulders are normally caused by an injury or force to the shoulder, pushing the ball out of the socket. The chances of dislocating your shoulder again after a previous dislocation are much greater because the muscles that hold it in place can be stretched or damaged.

Procedure

If you dislocate your shoulder, apply ice and seek medical attention. Your doctor will manipulate your shoulder so that it is no longer dislocated, after giving you a mild sedative or muscle relaxant, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Rest

Once you are home, you need to rest your shoulder until your doctor allows activity again. Your arm may be in a sling to keep the shoulder immobile for approximately three weeks.

Reduce Swelling

For the first few days after your shoulder has been repositioned, take an anti-inflammatory pain medicine and apply ice to reduce the swelling.

Time Frame

Recovery could take up to 12 weeks, according to the University of Michigan. During this time you may go to physical therapy sessions to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder.

Warning

You can resume normal activities after your doctor has allowed you to remove your arm sling. Be careful playing sports or doing any activity that dislocated your shoulder in the first place.

If you shoulder dislocates again, your doctor may suggest surgery to repair the tissues in your shoulder.

References

• University of Michigan: Dislocated Shoulder
• Rehabilitation Room: Shoulder
• MayoClinic: Dislocated Shoulder