Shoulder Dislocation Rehabilitation in Faridabad: Prevent Re-dislocation

Shoulder Dislocation: High Recurrence Without Rehabilitation

The shoulder is the most commonly dislocated joint in the body. Anterior dislocation (forward) accounts for 95% of cases and typically occurs from a fall on an outstretched hand or a direct blow with the arm in abduction and external rotation. The first-time dislocation injury damages the stabilising structures (anterior capsule-labral complex — the Bankart lesion, Hill-Sachs defect in the humeral head), and without proper rehabilitation, the recurrence rate is alarmingly high: 70–90% in patients under 25 years old.

Why Re-dislocation Rates Are So High

After reduction (putting the shoulder back in place), the damaged structures need time to heal and the neuromuscular system needs retraining. Without rehabilitation: muscle strength does not fully recover, proprioception (position sense) remains impaired, and the patient returns to sport without the protective neuromuscular reflexes that prevent re-dislocation.

Rehabilitation Phases

Phase 1: Immobilisation and Early Recovery (Weeks 0–3)

The shoulder is typically immobilised in a sling for 3 weeks. During this phase: pain management, elbow and wrist exercises to prevent stiffness, isometric rotator cuff exercises within pain limits.

Phase 2: Restoration of Motion (Weeks 3–6)

Progressive range of motion restoration — initially avoiding positions of instability (external rotation + abduction). Pendulum exercises, gentle active-assisted range of motion.

Phase 3: Strengthening (Weeks 6–12)

Progressive rotator cuff strengthening (all four muscles), scapular stabiliser strengthening, and proprioception training. Balance board shoulder exercises, rhythmic stabilisation techniques.

Phase 4: Return to Sport (Months 3–6)

Functional sport-specific training, progressive loading in positions of instability (controlled exposure), return-to-sport criteria including objective strength testing.

Shoulder Dislocation Rehab in Faridabad

At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we provide comprehensive shoulder dislocation rehabilitation. Book your shoulder assessment today.