Is your shoulder dislocated right now?
A shoulder that looks out of place after injury, with severe pain or inability to move the arm, needs urgent hospital assessment. Support the arm; do not try to push the joint back yourself. New numbness, marked weakness, or a cold or discoloured hand needs immediate attention. Do not wait for a routine appointment or WhatsApp reply.
First-time dislocation or recurrent instability?
A dislocation means the upper-arm bone has come out of its socket. A subluxation is a partial slip. After the joint has been put back, some people recover stability; others experience repeated slipping, giving-way or fear that the shoulder will come out during overhead activity.
What does an assessment involve?
Bring previous X-rays, scan images and treatment records. Assessment considers how the injury happened, previous episodes and the activities you need to return to. X-rays assess alignment and fractures. MRI may help assess the labrum, ligaments and tendons; CT may be useful when bone loss needs clarification. Not everyone needs every scan.
Can physiotherapy help?
Non-operative care can include modifying provoking activities and exercises for shoulder strength and control. Rehabilitation is individualised. Persistent slipping or repeated dislocations warrants reassessment rather than simply repeating the same exercises.
When is stabilisation surgery discussed?
Repeated dislocations, ongoing instability and associated tissue or bone injuries can change the treatment decision. Some young athletes consider surgery after a first episode following discussion of their recurrence risk and goals. A first dislocation does not automatically mean surgery for everyone.
Arthroscopic repair can address selected labral and ligament injuries. Bone damage may require a different or additional procedure, and some patients need open surgery. The operation is chosen after examination and imaging review.
Recovery and return to activity
After surgery, a sling may protect the shoulder initially. Rehabilitation gradually restores movement and strength. Work and sport plans depend on the procedure and recovery; discuss restrictions and milestones with your treating team. Surgery can be followed by stiffness, and recovery still requires physiotherapy.
Your care at VBJ
Consult Dr Vijay Chandar at VBJ Bone & Joint Clinic, Kanakapura Road, Vajarahalli, for assessment and follow-up. When indicated, surgery is planned at Manipal Hospitals, Kanakapura Road. The VBJ physiotherapy team coordinates rehabilitation with the surgical instructions.
Enquire about a shoulder consultation · Shoulder arthroscopy and treatment options
Further patient information
Sources: AAOS: chronic shoulder instability; AAOS: shoulder dislocation; Mayo Clinic: dislocated shoulder. General education supports an individual assessment.
Dr. Vijay Chandar R.
15+ years of clinical practice with a focus on knee replacement, ACL and sports knee injuries, arthroscopy and shoulder surgery. Consultations at VBJ Bone & Joint Clinic, Kanakapura Road. Read full profile →
Explore treatment and rehabilitation
Read about the care options related to this condition. The appropriate treatment depends on your assessment; not every condition requires surgery.
Related information
Need an orthopaedic assessment?
Bring any recent X-rays, MRI reports or medical reports. We’ll examine you, review your imaging and recommend an appropriate treatment path.