Closed reduction (shoulder)

A closed reduction of your shoulder is a way to set a dislocated shoulder without surgery.

Some dislocations in your shoulder may be able to be set without surgery. Your doctor or other medical professional will look at your shoulder and may take x-rays before determining if a closed reduction is the right choice for you.

You will be given pain medicine before your shoulder is set. The doctor will pull and move your arm to make the bones line up where they are supposed to go. Once the bones seem to be in the right place, you will have x-ray to confirm. You will be given a sling to support your shoulder.

If the shoulder dislocation can’t be put back into place, if there are additional injuries, or if the shoulder becomes unstable and dislocates frequently, surgery may be necessary.

Closed reduction of the shoulder physicians

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