What is appropriate follow-up following a shoulder dislocation?
Follow-up with a primary-care provider or orthopedic surgeon is advised after a shoulder dislocation. The decision as to when to begin range-of-motion exercises of the shoulder has to be individualized for each patient. In shoulder dislocations uncomplicated by fracture or other associated injuries, younger patients may be kept immobilized for two to three weeks. In the elderly, this time frame may shrink to only a week because the risk of a frozen shoulder (a joint that becomes totally immobile) is markedly increased. X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be required, depending upon the patient and the situation, to evaluate the extent of potential injury to the joint. Some patients may be a candidate for surgery to prevent future dislocations. The decision depends upon the extent of damage to the joint and the type of activity that the patient engages in. This decision is individualized for each patient. Physical therapy is an important component to return the shoulder joint
