Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually established acutely by deformity visible upon inspection of the shoulder, tenderness and limited motion, and radiographic confirmation of the dislocation. Recurrent dislocators demonstrate apprehension when the shoulder is placed in abduction and external rotation position.Conservative treatment
Initial immobilization for comfort with early progressive strengthening exercises allows early return to activity after acute dislocation.
Medications
Non-prescription medication, as directed by the orthopaedic surgeon.
Therapy
Young patients involved in athletics have high rate of recurrent dislocation with conservative treatment. Generally, rehabilitation is focused on early protection and symptom control followed by early range of motion and strengthening exercises.
Procedures
If the problem persists, an orthopaedic surgeon may decide to repair part of the labrum and/or capsule arthroscopically or through an open-shoulder procedure. Modern arthroscopic techniques generally involve use of suture anchors placed in the glenoid without the need to incise the subscapularis muscle (one of the important muscles of the rotator cuff). Open techniques necessitates subscapularis take down. Both techniques lead to similar outcomes in prevention of instability.
