Dislocated Shoulder Therapy

Dislocated shoulder or shoulder dislocation takes place when the head of the humerus gets separated or dislocated from its socket. There are three bones that come together in the shoulder joint, namely, humerus or arm bone, collarbone or clavicle and scapula or shoulder blade. The joint between the scapula and humerus is also known as glenohumeral joint. This joint can be termed as the most amazing joint for the wide range of motion that it allows, which no other joint of the human body can provide. However, the same fact makes it one of the most vulnerable joints for dislocation.

Shoulder dislocation can be anterior, posterior or inferior, and it is generally caused by physical injury or trauma. Vehicle accidents and sports injuries are the most common factors that can dislocate the shoulder joint.

Symptoms of Dislocated Shoulder
Shoulder dislocation is often accompanied by symptoms like, shoulder pain, loss of movements and swelling. Other symptoms like, weakness, bruising and numbness can also be present. Sometimes, the dislocated joint can damage the surrounding nerves and tear the ligaments or tendons of that area. Generally, when a joint is dislocated, the surrounding muscles get stretched, which induces muscle spasm, and this happens in case of shoulder dislocation as well.

Shoulder Dislocation Therapy
A dislocated shoulder joint can be reduced with the help of several methods. Generally, the dislocated shoulder is immobilized or kept in a single position with the help of a splint or sling. In the meantime, application of ice on the area can provide relief from the severe pain. Physicians can also suggest non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate the pain and swelling. The process of returning the head of the humerus to its socket, or the dislocated shoulder joint to its position, is termed as reduction. Reduction can be closed or open. Closed reduction involves bringing the joint to its normal position by manipulating the bones and the joints from outside, without making incision. On the other hand, surgical method of restoring the normal position of shoulder joint is termed as open reduction.

The methods of closed reduction that are used in the treatment, are scapular manipulation, external rotation or hennepin maneuver and traction-counter traction. Anesthesia is required, as the process of putting the shoulder back into its position can be quite painful. If these methods of closed reduction fails to restore the position of the shoulder joint, then open reduction or surgery can become imperative. Surgery is also required when dislocation causes extensive damage to the nerves and muscles or tendons of the surrounding area. Sometimes, the damaged tendons or ligaments can get caught in the joint, thereby making it quite difficult to return the head of the humerus to its socket with the usual closed reduction methods.

The patient may be required to use the sling or splint even after several weeks, following shoulder dislocation therapy. Physicians can recommend rehabilitation exercises, once the joint is fully restored to its normal location. These exercises can help individuals to prevent shoulder dislocation in the future by strengthening the muscles. This in turn, can restore the stability of the shoulder joint, and gradually, increase its range of motion. Such rehabilitation is usually started with mild muscle building or isometric exercises and then eventually, weight training. A few example of beneficial exercises include, isometric shoulder external rotation, isometric shoulder internal rotation, isometric shoulder flexion, shoulder rotation, isometric shoulder adduction, shoulder abduction, shoulder extension, etc. However, these exercises should be practiced only under the supervision of physical therapist.

So, the treatment can vary significantly depending on the condition of the patient, severity of the condition, and also the skill of the physician. In most of the cases of shoulder dislocation, the joint can be restored to its position with the help of closed reduction methods. Open reduction or surgery is rarely required for the treatment of shoulder dislocation. The best way is to visit an experienced physician immediately, when you experience the symptoms of dislocated shoulder, and discuss with him or her about the rehabilitation with the help of exercises or physical therapy.