Going home after your visit
Dislocated shoulder — advice after it has been put back
How to look after your shoulder while it heals, and what to watch out for.
Your shoulder was dislocated — the ball came out of the socket — and it has now been put back in place. Here is how to look after it while it heals.
Your care details
To be completed by the team before you leave.
this Emergency Department your nearest A&E other:
none needed
Call 999 now if any of these happen
These suggest the blood supply or nerves to the arm are affected.
- Your hand looks pale or blue, feels cold, and does not improve when you rest the arm on a pillow
- You suddenly cannot move your fingers or wrist at all
- You cannot get to hospital safely
CALL 999 Severe pain on its own does not need an ambulance — come back to the ED instead.
Get same-day reassessment if any of these happen
Come back to the ED or the urgent service named above.
- Your arm or hand feels numb, tingly or weak
- You feel the shoulder slip out again, or it feels like it is about to
- Pain is severe, or is getting worse quickly rather than easing
- The sling or support is rubbing, too tight, or you are not sure how to wear it
- You have not been given a follow-up or physiotherapy appointment
Caring for your shoulder
- Wear the sling for comfort and support, usually about 1–3 weeks as advised.
- Take it off several times a day to gently move your elbow, wrist and hand.
- Do not reach overhead or out to the side, or put your hand behind your back, until told it is safe.
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you can take them.
- Sleep propped up at first if that feels more comfortable.
Getting better
- You will be reviewed and offered physiotherapy — the exercises are important, so do them.
- The shoulder can dislocate again, especially in younger people, so avoid the position that caused it.
- Build back to sport and heavy lifting gradually, guided by your team.
Where to get help
999
Life-threatening emergency, or a severe breathing or circulation problem
ED / urgent service
A warning sign above that needs same-day reassessment
111
Urgent advice when it is not life-threatening, or you are unsure — call or visit 111.nhs.uk, 24/7
Your team / GP
Use the number and follow-up plan in Your care details above