Initial Treatment

• According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), shoulder dislocation (a common cause of shoulder instability) occurs when the ligaments, tendons, and muscles around the shoulder become loose or torn. As a result, initial treatment plans will focus on minimizing inflammation of the joint while also promoting increased range of motion in the shoulder. Exercises focusing primarily on internal and external rotation with minimal weight-bearing are normally introduced during the onset of treatment. Manual mobilization techniques focusing on the rotator cuff will also be implemented by a therapist to further aid in inflammation control. During this initial phase of treatment, patients will typically be required to wear a sling to support the affected limb.
  
  

Mid-Treatment

• According to ShoulderSolutions.com, patients who have suffered a shoulder dislocation caused by instability are 50 percent more likely to injure the shoulder again in the future. As a result, patients must begin exercises aimed at strengthening muscles surrounding the shoulder capsule. Exercises can include flexion and extension movements with weights ranging from 5 to 10 pounds, dependent upon injury severity. Therapists will also focus on continued range of motion stretching in an attempt to provide the body's most mobile joint a minimum of 180 degrees flexion and 120 degrees abduction. Patients may require continued assistance from a sling, but this may not be required for injuries of lower severity.
  
  

End Treatment

• Patients should have full range of motion within the shoulder at the time of therapy discharge and should be able to perform most flexion and extension exercises with a minimum of 15 lbs. Advanced shoulder movements (such as throwing and chin-ups) are often introduced at the end stage of treatment. To prevent future shoulder instability or dislocation, the physical therapist will discharge the patient with a home exercise program focusing on muscle strengthening and mobility maintenance.