Yes! A sports medicine doctor can treat shoulder dislocation, a condition in which the humerus (the head of the upper arm bone) either partially or entirely pops out of the glenoid (socket of the arm bone).
A sports medicine doctor is a person who is specialized in managing and preventing sports injuries and conditions, including shoulder dislocation. Shoulder dislocation can occur during contact sports like football and hockey, motor vehicle accidents, and sudden falls. So, aside from athletes, anyone who dislocates his/her shoulder can get treatment from a sports medicine physician.
Let’s talk about how a sports medicine doctor can treat your dislocated shoulder and where you can go in Boynton Beach for comprehensive orthopedic care.
Shoulder Dislocation Treatment from Sports Medicine Doctor
An orthopedic doctor specializing in sports medicine can use various treatment modalities to treat your dislocated shoulder. Common treatments may involve:
Closed Reduction
This treatment method is called closed reduction as no incision is made during the process. In this method, after diagnosing shoulder dislocation, your sports medicine doctor will carefully place your arm bone back into the socket properly. The sports medicine doctor will give you a sedative, muscle relaxant, or general anesthetic before manipulating the bones of your dislocated shoulder to manage the pain and swelling.
Once the shoulder bones are back in their place, you’ll usually notice an improvement in your pain. X-rays may be ordered to ensure your joint is in the right place after manipulation.
Immobilization
A sports medicine doctor may recommend using a splint or sling to prevent your shoulder from moving. You may be advised to wear a splint or sling for a few days to three weeks, depending on the nature of your shoulder dislocation.
Pain medications and muscle relaxants may also be prescribed.
Surgery
Typically, shoulder dislocation gets better without surgery, especially if your shoulder is dislocated for the first time. However, surgery is needed if you have recurring shoulder dislocation despite proper treatment and rehabilitation and if you have injured your tendons or bone. Moreover, damaged nerves or blood vessels also warrant surgery.
During surgery, your sports medicine doctor will repair or tighten your torn or stretched shoulder ligament to keep your arm bone connected to your shoulder blade.
Rehabilitation
After treatment, once your pain and swelling subside, your sports medicine doctor may recommend rehabilitation exercises to restore your range of motion, strengthen your shoulder muscles, and prevent future shoulder dislocation.
Sports Medicine Doctor in Boynton Beach, FL
If you suspect you or someone you love has shoulder dislocation and seek a lasting solution, don’t hesitate to contact the board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic doctors at Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches, who are specialized in sports medicine. Our sports medicine doctors have extensive experience and training in treating all kinds of sports injuries, including shoulder dislocation. Our sports medicine providers offer integrated, comprehensive care to help you get back to your favorite sport and day-to-day activities.
To make an appointment with an orthopedic doctor specializing in sports medicine, call our office. You can also fill out our online request form.
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. For advice about your condition, talk with your physician. Request an appointment with our team.
