Hand swelling after shoulder dislocation

The force that dislocates a shoulder can also irritate nearby nerves and blood vessels. A sling and a still arm may encourage fluid to collect in the hand. Swelling with tingling, weakness, a cold hand, or an unusual colour is more concerning than swelling that eases when the arm is supported. The shoulder may also remain unstable after reduction, so follow-up matters.

Keep the shoulder in the position advised after Shoulder Reduction. Support the forearm, remove rings, and perform only the finger, wrist, or elbow movements approved by your clinician. Do not try to relocate the shoulder yourself or force the arm through pain. Physiotherapy can later guide safe recovery when the treating team confirms it is appropriate.

Seek emergency care if the hand is cold, blue, very pale, increasingly numb, or difficult to move, or if severe pain returns after the shoulder was put back. Return urgently if the shoulder appears out of place again. Contact the treating team for swelling that keeps increasing, a tight sling, or symptoms that do not improve with the advised position.

Ask how to check circulation and sensation, how long the sling is needed, which exercises are safe, and when review should occur. If the shoulder has dislocated more than once, ask whether Shoulder Instability is being assessed and whether stabilisation options are relevant.