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Shoulder Dislocations -- Treatment
- Shoulder dislocations once reduced have typically been treated by placing the arm in a sling and swathe which holds the shoulder in adduction and internal rotation.
- However, several studies have now shown that placing the arm in a splint with the shoulder adducted and in 10 degrees external rotation helps to prevent recurrent shoulder dislocation.
- Patients should remain in the brace/split for 3 weeks.
- External rotation is not recommended if there is an associated fracture.
- Some commerical splints are now available to hold the shoulder in external rotation, however, you can make a small strut with plaster or fiberglass to achieve the same result.
References
McNeil NJ. Postreduction management of first-time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocations. Ann Emerg Med. Jun 2009;53(6):811-813.