Shoulder dislocation refers to injuries that occur when the ball of the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder moves out of the socket. The most suitable treatment approach for this condition depends on various factors.
Key factors may include the cause of the shoulder damage, the number of dislocations that have occurred, the patient’s age, sports or activities performed, and other variables. The patient should consult their doctor to understand the best treatment approach for them.
Thomas and Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by compassionate board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, and other towns and neighborhoods in this area of the US.
Sling for Shoulder Dislocation
Immediate shoulder dislocation treatment includes the placement of a sling around the shoulder to enable the inflammation to decrease. Subsequently, the patient will start progressive exercises until they can resume their routine activities. There is no research indicating the ideal duration for sling used to treat shoulder dislocation.
Physical Therapy
An injured individual can regain their movement and strength following shoulder dislocation with physical therapy. In cases of shoulder dislocation, the damage may cause the likelihood of repeat dislocations.
Physical therapy can strengthen the muscles that help the shoulder remain in position to make up for the ligaments that have become compromised due to the dislocation injury.
While physical therapy is commonly used in the treatment of shoulder dislocation and it is quite helpful in regaining mobility and strength, it has not been shown to decrease the probability of a repeat dislocation.
In general, the treatment recommendation for this condition is for the patient to undergo physical therapy after an initial dislocation. In case there is a second dislocation, the patient should proceed with surgery.
Brace for Shoulder Dislocation
At times, bracing is recommended for treating a shoulder dislocation. A brace is typically used for an in-season athlete who dislocates their shoulder. For such patients, surgical intervention would mean the end of the season. Therefore, a brace may be recommended to prevent this condition.
Braces can prevent the shoulder from being in a position where there is a likelihood of dislocation. Braces cannot prevent all shoulder dislocations. However, they can reduce the overall probability of shoulder dislocations in athletes.
A significant drawback of bracing is that athletes participating in sports usually find it challenging to wear a brace while competing effectively. Braces are particularly unwieldy for athletes performing overhead movements such as throwing. A majority of athletes are unable to resume their sport while wearing a brace for shoulder dislocation.
Shoulder Dislocation Surgery
Shoulder dislocation surgery is usually advisable for patients who have recurrent shoulder dislocations. Some patients may be recommended to undergo surgery after an initial dislocation. Surgery is now being considered as an initial treatment approach, particularly for young athletes engaging in contact sports.
These types of athletes have such a high probability of repeat dislocation that surgery is frequently used as a first-line treatment. A surgical procedure repairs the structures that hold the shoulder in place. Common ligament damage occurs in the front of the shoulder joint. A procedure called Bankart repair is used to repair these ligaments.
Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada and nearby areas in The Battle Born State for orthopedic treatments.
If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.