Doctors for Shoulder Dislocation Treatment

Shoulder dislocation is an injury in the upper arm bone that causes extreme pain, weakness, swelling, etc. In shoulder dislocation, the separation of the humerus from the glenoid of the scapula at the glenohumeral joint occurs. The dislocation can be anterior or posterior. It is a common injury that occurs during contact sports such as football, hockey, boxing, etc.

Shoulder dislocation requires prompt treatment. Any delay in the treatment can lead to further complications. The treatment for shoulder dislocation depends on the severity of the condition, the age of the patient, any pre-existing health condition, etc.

There are two main types of treatment - Surgical and Non-surgical

Surgical treatment:

There are different types of surgery for shoulder dislocation, including

• Bankart repair surgery: A doctor recommends this surgery for the treatment of recurrent shoulder joint dislocations. In this procedure, a surgeon re-attaches the worn-out ligaments to place them properly in the shoulder joint. The surgery is performed under the influence of general anesthesia, and the entire surgery takes around 1 to 2 hours.
• Capsular shift surgery: In this surgical procedure, a surgeon uses an arthroscope to tighten the ligament and capsule to stabilize the shoulder.
• Latarjet procedure: In this procedure, a surgeon uses a bone graft and muscle tendon. The entire surgery takes around 90 minutes. It is performed on an outpatient basis, which means patients can go home the same day.
• Remplissage procedure: This surgery is usually suggested if the ball of the shoulder or humeral head is severely damaged due to repeated shoulder dislocation. It helps in resurfacing the damaged area by filling them in or smoothing them out.

Non-surgical treatment options

In some cases, shoulder dislocation can be treated without surgery. Some common non-surgical treatments are as follows:

• Ice and rest: Resting and applying ice to the affected shoulder area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
• Medication: A dislocated shoulder may cause a dull, aching pain in the joint and cause inflammation in the soft tissues. Doctors may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) to relieve inflammation and reduce pain.
• Physical therapy: It helps in increasing flexibility and restoring range of motion. Try to do simple exercises every day to make your arm movements easier and alleviate pain. Strengthening your shoulder muscles also helps in preventing a future shoulder dislocation.
• Immobilization: A doctor usually recommends a sling or brace to immobilize the affected shoulder or arm for four to six weeks. It allows the muscles to rest and heal and also helps in reducing the swelling.

A detailed diagnosis is crucial before treatment in order to ensure successful outcomes. Some common diagnostic tests include

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): It is an imaging test that involves powerful magnetic and radio waves to create images of the shoulder joint. An MRI scan helps in identifying a soft tissue injury such as a torn ligament, strained muscle, or damaged cartilage.
• X-ray: This test is used to diagnose dislocations or bone fractures. It involves electromagnetic radiation to produce images of bones in the shoulder joint.
• Electromyography: This test helps measure the electrical activity of the nerves and muscles. It helps determine the nerve damage or weak spots in the shoulder-area muscles.

The recovery after a shoulder dislocation surgery can be classified into different phases:

• Phase I: In this phase, the shoulder is at a higher risk of re-injury. During this phase, you will likely need some assistance and require some special strategies to accomplish everyday tasks such as bathing and dressing. A physical therapist suggests some strengthening exercises to improve range of motion.
• Phase II: This phase usually starts one month after the surgery. A physiotherapist suggests some exercises to strengthen the core muscles of the trunk. In this phase, you can move your arm for daily activities, but you still need to avoid any heavy lifting with your arm. During this phase, a therapist suggests special joint mobilization techniques to help restore the shoulder’s range of motion.
• Phase III: It usually begins about three months after surgery. At this stage, you will be able to use your arm for daily activities completely and can also participate in sports and other physically strenuous activities.
• Phase IV: This phase begins four months after the surgery. By this phase, you will be able to do all kinds of physical activities, including lifting heavier items, all kinds of house chores, sports activities, etc.

There are multiple benefits of arthroscopic shoulder dislocation surgery:

• Minimal to no chances of complications
• Improves mobility and range of motion
• Minimal blood loss
• Fewer chances of repeated dislocation
• Minimal pain and discomfort
• Minimal chances of infection

The following are some common recovery tips to follow to promote healing:

• Attend all the rehabilitation sessions post-surgery to restore strength and flexibility of the shoulder joint. Physiotherapy usually begins a few days after the surgery and may continue for several weeks or months.
• You must keep your arm or shoulder immobile for a few weeks by wearing a brace or sling. It helps in reducing stress and promotes optimal recovery.
• Doctors usually advise to avoid any activity or movement that can put extensive pressure on the shoulder joint.
• It is common to experience discomfort and pain post-surgery. A doctor prescribes pain medications to control the pain.
• Attend all the follow-up appointments to track the progress after surgery and also look for any signs of complications that can delay the recovery process.

Some common risks and complications associated with shoulder dislocation surgery are as follows:

• Chances of infection at the surgical site
• Tingling and numbing sensation in the arm or hand
• Bleeding and tingling sensation in the hand or arm
• Swelling, stiffness, and pain in the shoulder joint after surgery
• Bruising and soreness around the surgical incision site
• Complications associated with anesthesia

The cost of shoulder dislocation surgery in India is around INR 60,000 to INR 95,000. This is the estimated cost of surgery, the final cost can vary depending on various factors, including

• The surgeon’s fee
• Cost of anesthesia
• Choice of the hospital
• Cost of medication
• Any pre-existing health condition
• Diagnostic tests charges
• City of the treatment
• Charges of physiotherapy sessions

Listed below are some questions that you must ask your surgeon before treatment

• How can I prevent shoulder dislocation?
• What are the risks and complications of shoulder dislocation surgery?
• How long is the rehabilitation period after the shoulder dislocation surgery?
• What is the recovery period after shoulder dislocation surgery?
• Can a dislocated shoulder heal on its own?
• What precautions do I need to take after shoulder dislocation surgery to promote healing?
• What causes shoulder dislocation?
• What are the risk factors for shoulder dislocation surgery?
• What are the long-term side effects of shoulder dislocation surgery?
• What kind of doctor is best for shoulder dislocation surgery?
• Is shoulder dislocation serious?
• Is shoulder dislocation surgery painful?
• What if shoulder dislocation is left untreated?
• What is the most effective treatment for shoulder dislocation?
• How long does shoulder dislocation surgery take/
• How can I reduce the chances of complications during or after the shoulder dislocation surgery?