Reduction of an inferior shoulder dislocation

In an inferior dislocation, the upper arm bone moves downward from the shoulder socket, often leaving the arm held above the head in a fixed and painful position. The surrounding muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and bones may also be affected. Because the arm position can look unusual and movement is very limited, this is not an injury to manipulate at home.

At the emergency department, clinicians examine pulse, skin colour, sensation, and hand movement before and after reduction. X-rays commonly help confirm the joint position and identify associated bone injury. Pain relief and muscle relaxation may be used so reduction can be performed with controlled traction and positioning.

Keep the arm in the position that causes the least movement and support it without pushing it downward. Remove rings or watches if swelling is developing, provided this does not move the arm. Do not eat or drink if urgent sedation or a procedure may be needed, unless emergency staff advise otherwise. Arrange transport or emergency help rather than driving yourself.

After reduction, the shoulder may be supported briefly while pain and swelling settle. Follow-up rehabilitation restores safe movement and shoulder control. Physiotherapy can address strength and coordination; repeated episodes may lead to discussion of shoulder stabilisation surgery. Read about [Shoulder Reduction](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/shoulder-reduction/) for the treatment context.

Call emergency services for a visibly deformed shoulder, an arm stuck overhead, severe pain, numbness, weakness, a cold or pale hand, absent pulse, heavy bleeding, or a major fall. Urgent review remains necessary after the joint is reduced if pain increases, the hand changes colour, sensation is reduced, or the shoulder feels unstable.

Ask: Were any nerves, blood vessels, bones, or tendons injured? What did the imaging show? How should I support the arm? When can I begin shoulder movement and physiotherapy? What activities should I avoid? Does the injury increase the chance of shoulder instability or require stabilisation surgery?