Best Treatment Options for Shoulder Dislocation By Dr. Kashyap Solanki

Shoulder dislocation is a common and often painful injury where the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket. Immediate and appropriate treatment is essential to restore function, alleviate pain, and prevent further complications. Below, we explore the best treatment options available for shoulder dislocation, from initial management to rehabilitation.

Immediate Treatment: Closed Reduction

The primary goal during an acute shoulder dislocation is to reposition the arm bone back into the socket, a process called closed reduction. This procedure is often performed in an emergency setting by gently manipulating the shoulder joint back into place. Muscle relaxants or sedation may be used to ease pain and muscle spasms during this process. Closed reduction typically results in immediate relief from severe pain and restores normal alignment without surgery.

Immobilization and Pain Management

After reduction, the shoulder is usually immobilized in a sling or special brace to restrict movement and support healing. Immobilization duration typically ranges from a few days to several weeks depending on injury severity and patient age. Pain management often includes over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which help reduce inflammation and discomfort during the healing phase.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Regaining range of motion, strength, and stability in the shoulder joint is critical following immobilization. A tailored physical therapy program helps restore proper function, reduces the risk of recurrent dislocation, and improves muscle coordination around the joint. Rehabilitation often begins with gentle passive movements progressing to active strengthening exercises over weeks to months.

Surgical Treatment Options

In cases of recurrent shoulder dislocations, significant soft tissue damage, or associated nerve or blood vessel injury, surgical intervention may be recommended. Surgery can involve repairing torn ligaments, stabilizing the joint capsule, or addressing bone defects depending on the injury complexity. Arthroscopic or open surgical techniques are used based on individual patient needs, and surgery is usually followed by an intensive rehabilitation program.

Key Points to Remember

• Seek emergency care immediately for suspected shoulder dislocations to ensure prompt realignment.

• Follow medical advice for immobilization and avoid premature use of the shoulder to minimize reinjury risk.

• Commit to a structured rehabilitation program under professional guidance for optimal recovery.

• Discuss surgical options with an orthopedic specialist if shoulder instability persists after initial treatment.

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About Dr. Kashyap Prabhu Solanki & Dr. Prabhu Solanki

Orthopaedic Surgeon – Andheri, Mumbai

Dr. Kashyap Solanki specializes in hip and knee replacement, robotic-assisted knee surgery, and joint preservation procedures like HTO, arthroscopy, and ligament reconstruction. He is also known for performing complex revision joint replacements and managing challenging upper and lower limb fractures. With a focus on precision and patient-centered care, Dr. Solanki helps restore mobility and improve quality of life through advanced orthopaedic solutions.

With over four decades of distinguished orthopaedic practice, Dr. Prabhu Solanki stands as one of Mumbai’s most experienced and respected orthopaedic surgeons. Having treated more than 40,000 patients and performed over 10,000 surgeries, his clinical outcomes and dedication have earned him widespread recognition — not just in Mumbai, but across India and abroad.

Dr. Solanki’s reputation for precision, ethical care, and long-term results has brought him patients from all over India, as well as international patients seeking high-quality orthopaedic treatment and surgical expertise in Mumbai.

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