What happens after reduction of a shoulder dislocation?
Examination Once the shoulder has been reduced, the health-care provider will want to reexamine the arm and make certain that no nerve or artery damage occurred during the reduction procedure. Often, another X-ray is taken to reassess the bones. Immobilization Significant damage occurs to the joint when the shoulder is dislocated. The labrum and joint capsule have to tear, and there may be associated injuries to the rotator cuff. These are the structures that lend stability to the shoulder joint and since they are injured, the shoulder is at great risk to dislocate again. A sling or shoulder immobilizer may be used as a reminder not to use the arm. This keeps the shoulder internally rotated up against the body. Recently, some orthopedic surgeons have begun recommending immobilizing the shoulder in 10-20 degrees of external rotation with the arm held partially away from the body to minimize future dislocation risk. The length of time a sling is worn depends upon the individual patient.
