Skip to content
WebMD: Better information. Better health.
 
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Medical Dictionary

First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
Font Size
A
A
A

Shoulder Dislocation Treatment

Call 911 if:

  • The injury was caused by a severe blow.
  • The person's pulse is weak.

1. Go to a Hospital Emergency Room

2. Immobilize Shoulder

  • Do not force arm to move.
  • Place pillow or rolled blanket between upper arm and chest.
  • If possible, put affected forearm in a sling, with elbow at 90°angle.
  • Wrap towel around the person's upper body to bind arm to it.

 

3. Control Swelling

  • Apply ice pack for 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day.

 

4. Follow Up

  • The doctor may manipulate the shoulder to put it back in place.
  • The doctor may recommend wearing a sling for several weeks.
  • Give medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for pain and swelling.
  • If shoulder continues to dislocate, surgery may be required.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

View Article Sources Sources
Reviewed by Varnada Karriem-Norwood, MD on September 27, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

FIRST AID A-Z

Health Solutions From Our Sponsors

WebMD the app

Get first aid information. Whenever. Wherever... with your iPhone, iPad or Android.

Find Out More