Does physiotherapy treat shoulder dislocation?

A dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone comes out of the shoulder socket. A clinician may need to put it back into position and check for associated injury before rehabilitation begins. Physiotherapy does not replace that urgent assessment. Afterward, treatment is adjusted to healing, pain, swelling and the direction of the dislocation. Early work may focus on comfortable movement of the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder within advised limits. Later sessions can build the rotator cuff and shoulder-blade muscles, improve joint position awareness and practise controlled daily activities. The aim is a steadier, more useful shoulder and lower risk of repeat episodes, although recovery differs between people.

Arrange an orthopaedic or emergency assessment if the shoulder is currently out of place, then follow the advice about a sling and movement restrictions. Do not try to force the joint back yourself. Once rehabilitation is cleared, attend physiotherapy and describe which movements feel unstable, painful or weak. Your programme may include gentle range-of-motion exercises, progressive resistance and sport- or work-specific control drills. Practise only the exercises prescribed for your stage; pushing through sharp pain or a slipping sensation can aggravate the joint.

Seek urgent medical care for a visibly misshapen shoulder, inability to move the arm, severe pain after an injury, new numbness or weakness, or a hand that becomes pale, blue or unusually cold. Contact your clinician promptly if the shoulder repeatedly slips, pain or swelling is worsening, or recovery stops progressing. These features may need examination rather than a change to home exercises.

Ask when shoulder movement and strengthening may begin, whether a sling is still needed, which positions to avoid, and what signs could suggest another dislocation or nerve irritation.