A shoulder dislocation happens when the upper arm bone (humerus) slips out of its usual position in the shoulder socket. It’s a painful injury that requires immediate attention. If you or someone you know experiences a shoulder dislocation, knowing the right steps for treatment is essential. Let’s explore the common treatments for shoulder dislocation, especially for beginners who might not be familiar with medical terms.
1. Immediate First Aid
If you suspect a shoulder dislocation, the first thing to do is stop all movement of the injured shoulder. Keeping the arm as still as possible can prevent further damage to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the shoulder joint. You may wish to report immediately to London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur where Xrays and US scans are available.
Steps:
- Don’t try to move or relocate the shoulder yourself. This can cause more harm.
- Support the injured arm. Use a sling or towel to hold the arm close to the body to reduce pain.
- Apply ice. Putting ice on the shoulder can help reduce swelling and numb the area.
After first aid, the person should be taken to a doctor or hospital as soon as possible.
2. Reduction Procedure
A healthcare professional will perform a procedure called reduction to put the dislocated shoulder back into place. This is the most common treatment for a shoulder dislocation.
Steps:
- The experienced doctor like Dr Vishal Sahni, expert Shoulder specialist at Nagpur will gently manipulate the arm to move the humerus back into its socket.
- The patient may be given a muscle relaxant or pain reliever to ease the discomfort during the procedure.
- Once the shoulder is back in place, there is usually an immediate reduction in pain.
Important: Only a trained medical professional should perform this procedure.
3. Immobilization
After the shoulder has been put back into place, it is often necessary to immobilize it. This helps the joint heal and prevents another dislocation.
Common Methods:
- A sling is often employed to hold the arm securely against the body and limit its movement.
- The duration for wearing the sling typically ranges from 1 to 3 weeks, depending on how severe the dislocation is.
During this time, it’s important to avoid heavy lifting or any activities that might stress the shoulder.
4. Physical Therapy (Physiotherapy)
Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process after a shoulder dislocation. Once the sling is removed, a physiotherapist will guide the patient through exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and stability to the shoulder.
Common Exercises:
- Stretching exercises to improve flexibility.
- Strengthening exercises to rebuild the muscles around the shoulder.
- Range of motion exercises to help regain normal shoulder movement.
Regular physiotherapy can also reduce the risk of future dislocations by making the shoulder joint stronger and more stable. Dr Anuradha Punyani is one of the best physiotherapists who works with Dr Vishal Sahni, best shoulder surgeon at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Dhantoli, Nagpur.
5. Pain Management
Pain is common after a shoulder dislocation, especially in the first few days. There are various ways to manage the pain and ensure a comfortable recovery.
Pain Relief Methods:
- Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol can reduce pain and swelling.
- Ice packs can be applied to the shoulder for 15-20 minutes every few hours to manage swelling and numb the area.
If necessary, your doctor might recommend more potent pain relief options.
6. Surgery (If Necessary)
In some cases, surgery may be required, especially if the dislocation is severe or if the patient experiences repeated dislocations. Surgery helps repair the damaged ligaments or tendons that hold the shoulder joint in place.
When is Surgery Needed?
- If the shoulder is unstable and keeps dislocating.
- If there are tears in the muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
- For younger patients engaged in sports, surgery might be advised to avoid recurrent dislocations.
Types of Surgery:
- Arthroscopic surgery (minimally invasive) is the most common type and involves small incisions.
- Open surgery: In more complicated situations, open surgery could be necessary.
After surgery, the patient will need to undergo a rehabilitation program to ensure proper healing.
7. Recovery and Prevention
Recovering from a shoulder dislocation can take several weeks or months, depending on the severity of the injury. Following the doctor’s advice and staying committed to physical therapy are important for a full recovery.
Tips for Prevention:
- Strengthen shoulder muscles through regular exercises.
- Avoid risky activities that may cause falls or injuries to the shoulder.
- Wear protective gear if you’re involved in contact sports like football or cricket.
The treatment for shoulder dislocation involves immediate first aid, medical procedures like reduction, immobilization, and physical therapy. In certain cases, surgical intervention might be required to restore the shoulder joint. Recovering properly and following prevention tips can help reduce the chances of future dislocations. Always seek medical help if you suspect a shoulder dislocation to ensure proper treatment and avoid long-term damage.