What to expect from physiotherapy after a shoulder dislocation

The first assessment considers pain, swelling, movement limits, sensation and the instructions from the clinician who reduced the joint. Early treatment may protect healing tissues while maintaining safe movement in the elbow, wrist and hand. Later sessions target the rotator cuff, shoulder-blade muscles and coordination so the arm can work without excessive strain. The pace depends on the injury, age, recurrence history and whether surgery was needed.

Use a sling only as directed and do not test the shoulder by forcing overhead or behind-the-back positions. Practise the home exercises exactly as taught, keep the arm supported when advised, and tell the therapist about catching, slipping or increasing pain. Returning to lifting, contact sport or overhead work should follow a staged plan. Learn more about rehabilitation through [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/).

Seek urgent care if the shoulder appears out of place again, the arm becomes numb or weak, the hand is cold or changes colour, or pain suddenly becomes intense. Contact your treating team for increasing swelling, fever, wound changes after surgery, or a loss of movement that is new rather than part of the planned programme.

Ask how long protection is needed, which movements are currently restricted, how to sleep comfortably, and what strength or control milestones come before driving, work or sport. Ask what to do if the shoulder feels as though it may slip.