This JAAOS review covers the acute management of shoulder dislocations — the most commonly dislocated large joint — from pathoanatomy and classification through anesthetic options, 11 anterior reduction techniques, posterior and inferior dislocation management, and post-reduction rehabilitation principles.
When you see an anterior shoulder dislocation, start with an intra-articular lidocaine block, and choose your reduction technique based on familiarity — but know at least one traction-based (FARES or Milch) and one levering method.
When you see a patient under 20 years old with a first-time dislocation, counsel them that recurrence risk exceeds 50% at 2 years and drives the conversation about early surgical stabilization.
This JAAOS review covers the acute management of shoulder dislocations — the most commonly dislocated large joint — from pathoanatomy and classification through anesthetic options, 11 anterior reduction techniques, posterior and inferior dislocation management, and post-reduction rehabilitation principles.
When you see an anterior shoulder dislocation, start with an intra-articular lidocaine block, and choose your reduction technique based on familiarity — but know at least one traction-based (FARES or Milch) and one levering method.
When you see a patient under 20 years old with a first-time dislocation, counsel them that recurrence risk exceeds 50% at 2 years and drives the conversation about early surgical stabilization.