How Do You Fix a Dislocated Shoulder?

A dislocated shoulder is a painful and often alarming injury that happens when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). Because the shoulder is the body’s most mobile joint, it is also the most prone to dislocation. If you or someone you know experiences a dislocated shoulder, knowing the proper steps toward treatment and recovery is important.

Immediate Steps After a Dislocation

The first priority when a shoulder dislocates is to protect the joint and prevent further injury. The arm should be kept as still as possible. Do not try to force the shoulder back into place yourself, as this can cause damage to nerves, blood vessels, and tissues around the joint. Instead, support the arm in a sling or splint and seek immediate medical care.

Applying ice can help reduce swelling and ease pain while you wait for treatment. Ice should be wrapped in a towel or cloth to prevent skin injury and used in 15 to 20-minute intervals.

How a Doctor Fixes a Dislocated Shoulder

At the hospital or clinic, a healthcare provider will examine the shoulder and likely order an X-ray to confirm the type and extent of the dislocation. Once confirmed, the typical treatment involves a procedure called closed reduction. During this process, the doctor gently maneuvers the arm and shoulder back into the correct position. In many cases, this quickly relieves pain and restores much of the shoulder’s function.

If the dislocation is severe or associated with fractures, nerve damage, or torn ligaments, surgery may be necessary to repair the joint and stabilize it. Surgery is more common for people who experience repeated shoulder dislocations or who have damaged surrounding tissues that cannot heal properly on their own.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

After the shoulder is put back into place, the arm is usually placed in a sling for several days to weeks, depending on the injury’s severity. Rest is critical during this time to allow the tissues to heal. However, complete immobility for too long can cause stiffness and weakness, so doctors often recommend beginning gentle motion exercises within a few days.

Physical therapy plays a major role in recovery. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises designed to restore range of motion, strengthen shoulder muscles, and improve stability to prevent future dislocations. Recovery time varies but often takes several weeks to a few months.

Preventing Future Shoulder Dislocations

Once you have dislocated your shoulder, the risk of it happening again increases, especially for young athletes and active individuals. Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder, improving flexibility, and following a guided rehabilitation program can significantly lower the risk of future injuries. Protective measures during high-risk activities, such as wearing proper gear and avoiding certain overhead motions, are also important.

Fixing a dislocated shoulder is not just about getting the joint back in place; it is about properly healing the supporting tissues and preventing future instability. Early medical intervention, proper rehabilitation, and commitment to strengthening exercises are key parts of a full recovery. If you have experienced a shoulder dislocation, working closely with a healthcare provider can help you return to your normal activities safely and confidently.