What should you know about Cunningham shoulder reduction?

The technique is used for some shoulder dislocations, particularly when the person can relax and follow instructions. The clinician positions the arm, supports the shoulder, and encourages slow breathing while muscle tension eases. It is not a manoeuvre to attempt at home. A shoulder that looks out of place may also have a fracture, nerve injury, or blood-vessel problem, so assessment and imaging may be needed before or after relocation. A successful reduction does not remove the need to check the joint and surrounding tissues.

Treat a suspected dislocation as an emergency: keep the arm still in the position found, support it with a sling or clothing, remove rings, and avoid food or drink until assessed in case a procedure is needed. Do not pull, rotate, or force the arm back into place. After reduction, follow the immobilisation plan and begin clinician-guided movement when advised. [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can help restore motion, strength, and confidence while reducing strain on the healing shoulder.

Go to emergency care immediately for a visibly deformed shoulder, severe pain, a hand that is cold or discoloured, new numbness or weakness, an absent pulse, or an injury involving a fall or high force. Return urgently after reduction if pain suddenly increases, the shoulder changes shape again, or hand sensation and movement worsen.

Ask whether the joint is fully reduced, whether imaging shows a fracture, how long to use the sling, which movements are restricted, and when rehabilitation should start.