How to Obtain a Correct Shoulder Alignment

The need for a correct shoulder alignment normally occurs after a shoulder dislocation. The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in your body making it susceptible to dislocation, which occurs when your shoulder joint is moved partially or completely out of its socket. This can occur due to a fall, overextending of the arm or direct blow to the shoulder. Symptoms include deformity, pain, swelling, numbness, bruising and weakness. Failure to treat a shoulder dislocation can result in repeat injury and poor alignment of your shoulder.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor if you suspect a shoulder alignment problem. Your doctor will examine your shoulder and order an X-ray to determine the extent of your injury.

• 2

  Have a closed reduction. A closed reduction means that your doctor will place your dislocation shoulder back in its socket. This may be performed under mild sedation. Pain will decrease almost immediately.

• 3

  Use a shoulder brace. Your doctor may provide you with a shoulder brace to help keep your shoulder properly aligned as you heal.

• 4

  Attend physical therapy. Physical therapy exercises for the shoulder can help strengthen your muscles and increase your range of motion. Therapy will include light stretching and strengthening exercises. As you rebuild your strength, therapy will then progress to weight training.

• 5

  Have surgery. If conservative treatments fail or your experience chronic dislocations, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgery will repair damaged ligaments that prevent your shoulder from maintaining proper alignment.