How effective is shoulder stabilisation surgery for shoulder dislocation?

A dislocation can stretch or detach the labrum, capsule, and ligaments that help keep the upper arm in its socket. Stabilisation surgery may repair these structures or adjust the way they support the joint. The approach is chosen after considering the direction and number of dislocations, bone loss, muscle condition, and the demands of work or sport. Better stability does not mean the shoulder can be tested immediately; repaired tissue needs time to attach and mature.

Use the sling for the period prescribed and avoid the positions your surgeon identifies as risky. Physiotherapy usually begins with protected movement, followed by gradual strengthening of the rotator cuff and shoulder-blade muscles. Do not return to contact sport, throwing, heavy lifting, or overhead work until strength, control, and healing have been assessed. Report a slipping sensation, catching, increasing pain, or loss of confidence early, because these symptoms can alter the rehabilitation plan.

Contact your surgical team for wound drainage, spreading redness, fever, increasing swelling, or pain that suddenly worsens. Seek urgent help if the shoulder visibly dislocates, the hand becomes cold or discoloured, or new numbness or weakness develops in the arm.

Ask which structure is being repaired, whether bone loss affects the operation, how long the sling is needed, and when driving, work, lifting, and sport may resume. Ask how a recurrent slipping feeling should be handled and which exercises protect the repair.