Shoulder Dislocation
What is a shoulder dislocation?
Shoulder dislocations are one of the most common sporting injuries, particularly in contact sports such as AFL. A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) is displaced from the shoulder socket (glenoid). Approximately 95% of shoulder dislocations occur in the anterior (forward) direction, most commonly following a fall onto an outstretched arm or a direct impact to the shoulder.
A first-time dislocation can damage not only the joint capsule and ligaments, but also the labrum, cartilage, or bone. In some cases, associated injuries such as rotator cuff tears or fractures may also occur, particularly in older adults.
What should you do after a dislocation?
If a shoulder dislocation is suspected, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. A trained healthcare professional should relocate the joint, and imaging such as X-rays is often performed before and after the shoulder is put back into place (reduced) to confirm the diagnosis, ensure the joint has been successfully relocated, and identify any associated fractures or other damage. The shoulder is then usually supported in a sling for a short period before rehabilitation begins.
Not every shoulder dislocation requires surgery. Many people recover well with structured physiotherapy and rehabilitation, particularly those with lower physical demands or a lower risk of recurrence. However, younger athletes, people participating in contact sports, or those with recurrent instability may benefit from early review by an orthopaedic surgeon, as surgical stabilisation may reduce the risk of future dislocations.
Who is at risk of recurrent dislocations?
One of the main concerns following a first-time shoulder dislocation is the risk of recurrence, with recurrence rates reported as high as 70% in some individuals. The risk is increased by the following factors:
- Male sex
- Age <25 years
- Participation in contact or overhead sports
- Injury to the dominant arm
- Generalised joint hypermobility (Beighton score >5)
What does rehabilitation look like?
Rehabilitation is a key component of recovery. Early, guided rehabilitation is recommended to restore shoulder function while protecting healing tissues. Stages of rehab include:
- Stage 1 (0-2 weeks): Protection and pain management
- Allow healing
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Begin gentle movement as appropriate
- Stage 2 (2-6 weeks): Restore movement
- Regain shoulder mobility
- Maintain stability
- Begin activation of the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles
- Stage 3 (4-12 weeks): Strength and stability
- Progressive strengthening
- Dynamic shoulder stability
- Sport- or work-specific exercises
- Stage 4 (3-6 months): Return to activity
- Functional testing
- Gradual return to sport
- Strategies to reduce recurrence
When should you see a Physiotherapist?
If you’ve recently dislocated your shoulder, early physiotherapy can help restore shoulder strength and stability, guide your return to work or sport, and reduce your risk of future dislocations. Individualised rehabilitation remains the cornerstone of successful long-term recovery.
Whittlesea Physiotherapy & Clinical Pilates has been serving the Whittlesea community since 2005. Our experienced physiotherapy team provides evidence-based assessment and treatment for tendon conditions, sports injuries, and musculoskeletal pain across all ages and activity levels.
This blog is intended as general health information only. It does not replace individualised professional advice. Please consult a qualified physiotherapist for assessment and management of your specific condition.