How to Heal a Dislocated Shoulder Fast

As your body's most mobile joint, your shoulder joint is able to move in multiple directions. While this is a significant advantage in terms of movement, it also makes the shoulder joint very susceptible to injuries, especially dislocation. Take these steps to help heal a dislocated shoulder fast.

Instructions

• 1

  Contact a doctor right away if you believe you've dislocated your shoulder. Symptoms of a dislocated should include swelling, weakness, numbness and bruising. Seeking medical help immediately ensures that your dislocated shoulder heals fast and minimizes your chances for further complications. The doctor will perform a process called closed reduction, which involves carefully placing the ball of the upper arm bone back into the joint socket. Placing the arm bone back in the joint socket should relieve the severe pain.

• 2

  Keep the shoulder immobilized for a period of time. Immobilization is often accomplished by using a sling, and the time period may be as long as three to four weeks.

• 3

  Rest your shoulder as much as you can during the weeks that follow the dislocation.

• 4

  Ice your shoulder, while it is still feeling sore, for about 20 minutes at a time, three to four times a day.

• 5

  Perform the rehabilitation exercises recommended by your doctor after the pain and swelling are gone. Start with gentle muscle-toning exercises. After a few weeks, incorporate weight training.