A dislocated shoulder is a painful injury that can affect anyone, from athletes to older adults. While the shoulder can often be put back in place by a doctor, full recovery depends on proper rehabilitation. To help people understand their options, Performance Physical Therapy is sharing helpful information about the role of physical therapy for dislocated shoulder injuries.
Why Recovery Needs More Than Just Rest
A shoulder dislocation happens when the upper arm bone slips out of the shoulder socket. This can damage the ligaments and muscles that hold the joint together. Once the shoulder is reset, many people think resting will be enough. But without therapy, the joint often becomes weak and unstable.
“Physical therapy is not just about healing the shoulder after a dislocation,” said a therapist at Performance Physical Therapy. “It’s about rebuilding strength, restoring movement, and teaching the body how to prevent the injury from happening again.”
How Physical Therapy Helps a Dislocated Shoulder
Dislocated shoulder physical therapy focuses on bringing the shoulder back to full function. At Performance Physical Therapy, recovery is broken down into clear stages:
- Managing Pain and Swelling – Gentle techniques, ice or heat, and guided movements to reduce discomfort.
- Regaining Movement – Stretches and controlled exercises that restore flexibility without putting stress on the joint.
- Strengthening Muscles – Exercises for the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizers that support the joint.
- Preventing Future Dislocations – Education on posture, safe lifting, and daily habits to protect the shoulder.
- Returning to Sports or Work – Custom exercises that prepare patients for their specific activities.
Each program is tailored to the individual, ensuring progress is safe and effective.
Helpful Tips for Anyone Recovering from a Dislocated Shoulder
- Don’t skip therapy. Resting alone can leave the shoulder unstable.
- Follow your therapist’s plan. Doing too much too soon can cause another dislocation.
- Stay patient. Recovery can take weeks to months, depending on the injury.
- Work on posture. Good shoulder and back posture helps keep the joint stable.
- Strengthen regularly. Even after recovery, gentle exercises keep the shoulder strong.
A Supportive Approach
Performance Physical Therapy has been helping the Newark community with injuries for years. The team’s goal is not just to treat the shoulder, but to help people feel confident moving again.
“We want patients to know they’re not alone in recovery,” said the clinic’s director. “We guide them step by step, answer their questions, and give them tools to get back to daily life safely.”
When to Seek Help
If you’ve recently dislocated your shoulder, or if you’ve had more than one dislocation, seeing a physical therapist can make a big difference. Signs that therapy may help include:
- Ongoing pain or weakness
- Difficulty lifting your arm overhead
- Feeling like your shoulder might “pop out” again
- Limited range of motion
The earlier treatment begins, the better the results.
About Performance Physical Therapy
Performance Physical Therapy is located in Newark, Delaware, and provides care for people of all ages dealing with injuries, pain, or limited movement. Their services include sports injury rehab, post-surgical recovery, strength training, and personalized wellness programs.
For more information,
Contact:
Performance Physical Therapy
📞 Call: 302-234-2288
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://pptandfitness.com/
Comments