First Aid & Emergencies

Shoulder Dislocation Treatment

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.