What to Do After a Shoulder Dislocation
Understand why a suspected shoulder dislocation needs emergency assessment and what to discuss during follow-up for shoulder instability.
What to Do After a Shoulder Dislocation content
A suspected dislocation needs emergency assessment
A shoulder that looks out of place or becomes very painful and difficult to move after an injury needs emergency medical assessment. Do not try to put it back yourself. Numbness, weakness, or a cold or discolored hand can indicate injury to nerves or blood vessels. Do not wait for an online appointment.
Follow-up matters after the shoulder is back in place
The joint can have associated bone, tendon, ligament, or labral injuries. Follow the treating team's sling and activity instructions and arrange the recommended follow-up. Tell the clinician whether this has happened before and bring emergency department records and images.
Discuss the risk of another dislocation
Some injuries can be managed without surgery. Recurrent dislocations or damage to stabilizing structures may lead to a surgical discussion. The examination and imaging help distinguish those situations; feeling better does not by itself establish that the shoulder is stable.
Common questions
Should I return to sport when the pain improves?
Ask your treating clinician for clearance. The shoulder's strength, stability, and associated injuries matter as well as pain.
Sources and further reading
General patient education. Your surgeon's and anesthesia team's personalized instructions take priority. Contact your care team if instructions are unclear or conflict.
Questions about your recovery?
Call Dr. Sonntag's office. His team is here to help you through every step.
(574) 319-9697Let's get you moving again.
Request a consultation and Dr. Sonntag's team will be in touch, typically within one business day. Most major insurance accepted.