Dislocated joints, especially the shoulders, are painful injuries that cause immediate short-term disability; joint movement is impossible until repositioning or re-establishment. The shoulder is particularly prone to dislocation because it is the most flexible joint in the body, and people tend to fall on the outstretched arm, putting the joint in an awkward position. It is best to have a well-trained surgeon fix or repair a dislocated shoulder, although there may be abnormal (emergency) situations that require you to repair it yourself. If the dislocated shoulder is not restored in time, it may eventually require surgery to properly repair it.

This article provided by Dr Chandra Shekar B gives information about the fastest way to heal a dislocated shoulder.

What is a shoulder dislocation? 

Shoulder dislocation is a common sports injury. This happens when the upper part of the humerus (arm) bone pops out of the shoulder socket. This may be: 

• Traumatic, such as falling on the arm or lifting a heavy object over the top of the head 
• Atraumatic stress, such as repetitive pressure when throwing a ball, gradually loosens the shoulder joint and causes instability. 

The shoulder is a highly flexible joint that can help us move our hands in many positions around the body. When the humerus is dislocated from the joint socket, it usually causes some damage to the surrounding ligaments and the cartilage lining in the joint.  

How to Fix Shoulder dislocation?

If it is the first dislocation, it will generally be treated conservatively  and strengthened through guided rehabilitation. Otherwise, you should seek the help of a trained doctor who will take care of you. It indicates that the shoulder is unstable and surgical intervention may be required if it is a recurring problem. 

Let us know the fastest way to heal a dislocated shoulder?

It is very important to protect the shoulder from further damage in the first 2-3 weeks because the damaged soft tissues and ligaments are about to begin to repair and strengthen. The focus is to strengthen the surrounding musculature, including the rotator cuff muscles, as much as possible to give the joints the strength and stability needed to fully function. To maintain shoulder mobility and reduce pain after a shoulder dislocation, you should follow the following treatment options.

Use a sling for the dislocated shoulder: After the dislocation, it is best to immobilize the injured shoulder immediately. The most effective way to prevent further injury is to place and keep your arm in a sling. If necessary, you can use a towel or pillowcase to make a temporary sling until you get professional medical assistance. 

 Go to the doctor: Although there are many tutorial videos online for reference, do not try to reposition your shoulder; doing so will further damage the sensitive muscles and tendons that connect the arm and shoulder joints. The doctor will properly repair your dislocation and recommend appropriate care and next steps based on the severity of your injury. 

Apply ice to the shoulder: After putting the shoulder back in place, apply ice to the injured area for 20 to 30 minutes as needed every three hours over the next few days.

Icing can help reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort. 

Taking analgesics: To relieve the pain and throbbing pain caused by the dislocation, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or other pain relievers. Take them as needed, but carefully follow the dosage instructions for each drug and be aware of possible side effects. 

Exercise your shoulders: To speed up your healing process and prevent your shoulders from locking up when not in use, your doctor may recommend physical therapy. Whether you are instructed to go to a physical therapy centre or do stretching exercises and strength training at home, please relax and pay attention to your pain level and limited range of motion to avoid injury again.

Rehabilitation: After removing the shoulder splint or sling, you will begin a gradual rehabilitation program designed to restore the shoulder joint’s range of motion, strength, and stability. 

Limiting shoulder stress: Because the shoulder joint is unstable, it is easy to reoccur once it is dislocated. To avoid injury again, you may need to give up activities that may put excessive stress on the injured shoulder. Repeated shoulder dislocations can cause chronic pain, restricted movement, and severe damage to joints, nerves, and tissues. If your shoulder dislocation causes a ligament or tendon tear, surgery is recommended. 

Consider surgical intervention: If your shoulder joints or ligaments are weak and despite proper strengthening and rehabilitation, shoulder dislocations continue to occur, you may need surgery. In addition, in rare cases, if your nerves or blood vessels are damaged, you may need surgery.  

Conclusion:

When the shoulder joint is in a vulnerable position, such as when a person throws a ball, the force exerted on the shoulder joint can cause the shoulder joint to dislocate. Dislocation is painful and may temporarily cause limited mobility. If a person is not properly treated, possible long-term problems such as recurrent dislocation and arthritis may occur. If a person suspects that their shoulder is dislocated, they should seek emergency medical assistance.

If you have tried simple treatments but still suffer from chronic pain and swelling due to shoulder dislocation injuries, the Hyderabad Shoulder Clinic can help. Dr Chandra Shekar. B can help treat any discomfort caused by shoulder dislocation. If you have any questions about the physical therapy of shoulder dislocation or want to discuss possible surgical options, please call us immediately at  91 9959588389 to schedule an appointment.