Post-reduction care for an anterior shoulder dislocation

Great post-reduction care for an anterior shoulder dislocation includes four important aspects:

1. A physical exam
2. An x-ray exam
3. Re-dislocation prevention
4. Follow-up care

There are three clues that you have successfully reduced a shoulder:

1. The patient will have an immediate decrease in pain.
2. The shoulder will look normal again.
3. The patient can reach across their chest and touch their other shoulder.

If your patient had reduced sensation over their deltoid before the reduction (e.g., axillary nerve injury), they have a 90% recovery rate after reduction. However, it’s a good idea to have them follow up with an orthopedist.

It’s a good idea to get post-reduction x-rays to show that at the time of discharge, the shoulder was back in. Because of all the tears and stretching that lead to the initial dislocation, the shoulder is at a higher risk of re-dislocating.

To prevent re-dislocation, adduct and internally rotate the shoulder before placing it in a sling. Then, use a strap to prevent external rotation and abduction.

The incidence of rotator cuff injury is almost 40%, so it is important to follow up with an orthopedist for all shoulder dislocations.

Generally, patients older than 60 should follow up in five days and start physical therapy to avoid future shoulder stiffness. Younger patients will usually be immobilized for three weeks and can follow up in one to two weeks.

Great job! You’re well on your way to perfecting post-reduction care for a shoulder dislocation.

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