The shoulder is a mobile ball and socket joint. A dislocation occurs when the ball is dislocated from the socket. Dislocations can occur following an injury or can be a recurrent problem.
Your shoulder will have been relocated in the Emergency Department. This page gives guidance on what you should to do next in order to manage your symptoms.
- Take over the counter pain relief medication. (Always read the label.)
- Wear the sling provided for up to 1 week, weaning yourself off as you feel comfortable. Evidence suggests longer use of the sling could delay your recovery.
- You will be referred to a physiotherapist who will guide your rehabilitation. Depending on your age and whether a dislocation has occurred previously you may also be referred to the orthopaedic department.
Shoulder exercises can be found on NHS Inform. ‘Arm swings’ and ‘Arm circles’, as shown in the videos, can be started as soon as you feel able. Remember to keep your elbow and hand moving!