How to reduce a dislocated shoulder

A occurs when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket. This can be an extremely painful injury, but with the right technique and caution, it is possible to reduce the dislocation before seeking medical attention. It is important to note that reducing a dislocated shoulder should only be attempted if you have the necessary knowledge and experience, otherwise, it is best to seek immediate medical attention. Here are the steps to reduce a dislocated shoulder:

Step 1: Assess the situation
Before attempting to reduce a dislocated shoulder, it is crucial to evaluate the situation. Make sure the individual is comfortable and encourage them to remain still to avoid any further damage. If there are any visible fractures or severe injuries, do not proceed with reduction and instead call for immediate medical assistance.

Step 2: Prepare the area
To ensure maximum safety during the reduction process, position the individual comfortably on a firm surface. Clear the surrounding area of any hazards and keep the area well-lit. Gather any necessary tools such as towels or padding to provide support for the affected arm.

Step 3: Encourage relaxation
It is important to keep the individual calm and relaxed before starting the reduction process. Tension and resistance can worsen the pain and make reduction more challenging. Encourage slow and deep breathing to promote relaxation and help manage the pain.

Step 4: Stabilize the affected arm
To reduce a dislocated shoulder effectively, it is necessary to stabilize the arm. Use towels or padding to provide support under the affected arm, minimizing any unnecessary movements. This stability is crucial to prevent further injury when performing the reduction maneuver.

Step 5: Apply gentle traction
Once the arm is stabilized, the next step is to apply gentle traction to the arm. Grasp the affected arm securely just above the elbow and slowly and steadily pull in the direction away from the shoulder socket. This action helps to stretch the surrounding muscles and ligaments, assisting in aligning the bones for reduction.

Step 6: Rotate and adduct the arm
While maintaining traction, gently rotate the arm inwards towards the body and bring it across the chest, aiming to guide the ball of the upper arm bone back into the socket. This maneuver, known as adduction, helps to manipulate the joint and facilitate reduction.

Step 7: Seek medical help
After successfully reducing a dislocated shoulder, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. While the reduction process may provide temporary relief, professional evaluation and care are necessary to ensure the injury is properly assessed and treated to prevent future complications.

It is important to note that dislocated shoulders can be recurrent, especially if the individual has a history of dislocations or suffers from loose ligaments. Therefore, rehabilitation exercises and medical supervision are crucial to strengthen the shoulder joint and minimize the risk of future dislocations.

In conclusion, reducing a dislocated shoulder is a delicate procedure that should only be attempted if you have the necessary knowledge and experience. When properly executed, this process can provide temporary relief and allow the individual to seek appropriate medical attention. However, it is strongly recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any reduction techniques.