A dislocated shoulder is often painful and disabling when left untreated and may become a chronic condition. In the United States, about 24 people per 100,000 experience this type of dislocation. In Lancaster, Ephrata, and Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, board-certified shoulder dislocation surgeon Michael Bercik Jr., MD, offers conservative and surgical treatment options for shoulder dislocation in active adults and athletes. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or using the online booking feature today for an outpatient procedure.
What are shoulder dislocations?
A shoulder dislocates when the upper arm bone (humerus) (ball portion) moves entirely or partially out of the shoulder socket portion, disrupting the ball-and-socket joint, and completely dislocates in severe cases. The joint surfaces between the humeral head and the shoulder blade no longer align properly, causing complete separation. The labrum, shoulder ligaments, and soft tissues may also be damaged and result in bone loss. Dr. Michael Bercik, who completed his medical degree at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and two international fellowships specializing in shoulder and elbow surgery, offers advanced care, including shoulder dislocation surgery to stabilize the shoulder, stabilize the joint, and prevent recurrent dislocations.
Dislocations can be classified as anterior dislocation (most common), posterior dislocation, partial dislocation, or complete dislocation with frequent dislocation patterns. When the shoulder is dislocated from trauma, it compromises the shoulder muscles and surrounding soft tissues and shoulder function, with recurrent instability, potentially causing significant shoulder pain and stiffness.
Anterior vs. posterior shoulder dislocations
Anterior dislocation
Anterior dislocations account for approximately 95% of all shoulder dislocations and occur when the humeral head is forced forward out of the glenoid socket, often requiring rest and sometimes surgical intervention such as shoulder replacement or reverse shoulder replacement in severe cases. This typically happens when the arm is outstretched during a fall, tackle, or collision. The anterior capsule and labrum are commonly torn in these injuries, a condition known as a Bankart lesion. A Hill-Sachs lesion, which is an impression fracture on the back of the humeral head caused by contact with the glenoid rim, is also frequently present.
Posterior dislocation
Posterior dislocations are less common but more frequently missed at initial evaluation. They occur when the humeral head is driven backward, often from a seizure, electrocution, or direct blow to the front of the shoulder. Patients with posterior dislocations typically hold the arm in internal rotation and have difficulty externally rotating the arm. MRI is often necessary so your Lancaster shoulder dislocation surgeon can fully evaluate the extent of soft tissue and bone injury in posterior dislocations.
First-time vs. recurrent dislocations
A first-time dislocation in a young, active patient carries a high risk of recurrence. Research published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery indicates that patients under age 25 who sustain a first-time anterior shoulder dislocation have a recurrence rate of up to 90% without surgical stabilization. Older patients and those with lower activity demands have a lower recurrence risk and may do well with conservative care alone. The decision between non-surgical and surgical management following a first dislocation depends on age, activity level, degree of bone loss, and the patient’s goals.
Dislocated shoulder symptoms
Dr. Bercik will look for symptoms, such as:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Where patients experience pain in the shoulder joint
- Visible shoulder deformities
- Shoulder instability
- Clicking or catching sensations in the socket joint – sometimes described as an electric shock
- Limited full range of motion
- Inability to move the injured shoulder or arm
These symptoms can range from mild to intense shoulder pain, and early care helps reduce overall recovery time. Go to the emergency room for prompt medical help to restore the correct position of the joint and reduce pain.
What are the risk factors for dislocated shoulders?
Shoulder dislocation occurs most commonly from traumatic injury, including sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, or falls often leading to recurring dislocations. People in their teens and 20s who play contact sports or have physically demanding jobs are at an increased risk. Our clinic offers same-day access for orthopedic injuries, including shoulder dislocations, providing prompt treatment options.
Young athletes and individuals with a history of dislocations have an increased risk of future repeated shoulder dislocations, especially in the same shoulder. Additional risk factors include muscle imbalances, weak shoulder ligaments, and activities that involve repetitive overhead motion.
Dr. Michael Bercik completed advanced fellowship training and has access to state-of-the-art orthopedic care facilities in Lancaster, offering expert treatment for shoulder conditions. Patients can visit the clinic to explore both conservative and surgical options provided by the experienced team led by Dr.Bercik, ensuring comprehensive shoulder dislocation care.
How are shoulder dislocations diagnosed?
Orthopedic surgeons begin diagnosis with a full physical examination and a discussion of symptoms and past injuries to facilitate healing planning. As a shoulder dislocation specialist, Dr. Bercik will ask about the mechanism of injury, such as a fall or athletic activity. He examines the shoulder joint for signs of an anterior or posterior shoulder dislocation and may order X-rays or an MRI to determine whether there are torn ligaments, bone damage, or injury to blood vessels before surgery is performed.
Accurate diagnosis helps guide your Lancaster shoulder dislocation specialist on whether closed reduction (manually repositioning the bone), conservative management, or surgery is needed if the shoulder continues to slip out of place.
Emergency shoulder dislocation treatment options and closed reduction
When a shoulder dislocates, the immediate priority is repositioning the humeral head back into the glenoid socket through a procedure called closed reduction. This is performed in an emergency setting, typically with sedation or a nerve block to relax the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint and reduce pain during the procedure.
Several reduction techniques are used depending on the type and severity of the dislocation. The Cunningham technique, Stimson method, and external rotation method are among the most commonly used approaches for anterior dislocations. Following successful reduction, X-rays are taken to confirm the joint is properly repositioned and to check for any associated fractures.
After reduction, the shoulder is typically immobilized in a sling. The duration of immobilization and the position of the arm during that period can influence the risk of re-dislocation, particularly in younger patients. Dr. Bercik, your Lancaster shoulder dislocation doctor, reviews imaging and evaluates the joint after reduction to determine the most appropriate next steps, whether conservative rehabilitation or early surgical intervention.
How are Shoulder Dislocations Treated by Dr. Michael Bercik, a Lancaster Shoulder Dislocation Surgeon?
Treating a dislocated shoulder includes closed reduction followed by immobilization in a sling for several weeks (typically four to six weeks) as part of shoulder dislocation treatment. In cases of anterior shoulder instability, Dr. Bercik may recommend that minimally invasive surgery be performed arthroscopically to repair the shoulder ligaments and relieve shoulder instability if non-operative treatment doesn’t work.
Rehabilitation is essential, often involving physical therapy with a physical therapist to improve range of motion, rebuild strength in the shoulder muscles using strengthening exercises, and prevent future dislocations after a surgical procedure. Techniques such as applying an ice pack can help reduce pain and inflammation during the first few weeks of recovery alongside pain medication or nerve block use.
As one of the best shoulder instability doctors in Lancaster, Dr. Bercik tailors each plan to the extent of the injury and individual goals and may recommend shoulder stabilization surgery or open shoulder surgery when conservative treatment options fail. He ensures comprehensive care for both the body and shoulder function using arthroscopic surgery with small incisions where neccesary. Dr. Bercik also offers comprehensive shoulder care, treating conditions like rotator cuff damage, arthritis in shoulder, shoulder stiffness, and shoulder separation.
Conservative rehabilitation after shoulder dislocation
For patients who are candidates for non-surgical management, a structured rehabilitation program is the foundation of recovery. The goals are to restore range of motion, rebuild the strength and dynamic stability of the rotator cuff and periscapular muscles, and reduce the risk of re-dislocation.
Rehabilitation is typically divided into phases. The early phase focuses on reducing pain and swelling while protecting the healing soft tissues. As symptoms improve, range of motion exercises are introduced gradually. The later phases target strength, neuromuscular control, and sport-specific or activity-specific movement patterns.
Return to contact sports or demanding physical activity is guided by objective strength and stability benchmarks, not just a fixed timeline. Patients who return too early without adequate strength and stability are at higher risk of re-dislocation. Dr. Bercik coordinates closely with physical therapists to monitor progress and determine when it is safe to advance activity.
Surgical stabilization options for shoulder dislocation
When conservative treatment is insufficient or when imaging reveals significant structural damage, surgical stabilization is the most reliable way to restore shoulder stability and prevent recurrent dislocations. Dr. Bercik performs both arthroscopic and open stabilization procedures depending on the extent of injury and the patient’s anatomy.
Bankart repair
Arthroscopic Bankart repair is the most common surgical procedure for anterior shoulder instability in patients without significant bone loss. The torn labrum and anterior capsule are reattached to the glenoid rim using small anchors, restoring the normal bumper effect of the labrum and tightening the stretched ligaments. Arthroscopic Bankart repair is performed through small incisions with a camera, resulting in less disruption to surrounding tissue and a faster return to activity compared to open surgery.
Most patients undergoing Bankart repair require 4 to 6 months of recovery before returning to contact sports. Recurrence rates following arthroscopic Bankart repair in properly selected patients are generally low, though patients with significant glenoid bone loss may not be ideal candidates for this procedure alone.
Latarjet procedure
When significant glenoid bone loss is present, or when a Bankart repair has previously failed, the Latarjet procedure is often the preferred surgical option. This technique transfers a small piece of bone (the coracoid process) along with its attached tendon to the front of the glenoid socket, restoring the bone surface of the socket and adding a dynamic stabilizing effect from the transferred tendon. The Latarjet procedure has a well-established track record for managing complex instability and high-demand patients at elevated risk of re-dislocation.
Risk of re-dislocation and long-term shoulder instability
One of the most important factors in shoulder dislocation treatment is understanding the risk of re-dislocation. Age at the time of first dislocation is the strongest predictor of recurrence. Patients under 20 years old who sustain a first-time dislocation and return to sports without surgery face the highest recurrence rates. With each subsequent dislocation, additional damage to the labrum, capsule, and bone surfaces accumulates, making future stabilization more complex.
Patients who experience recurrent dislocations often develop chronic shoulder instability, where the shoulder feels loose, gives way unpredictably, or dislocates with minimal force. This pattern of instability affects daily activities, sleep, and the ability to participate in sports or physical work. Chronic instability is also associated with accelerated cartilage wear and an increased risk of developing shoulder arthritis over time.
Addressing instability early, before bone loss becomes significant, gives patients the best chance at a full recovery with the least invasive surgical approach. Dr. Bercik evaluates each patient’s specific anatomy, bone stock, and activity demands to determine the optimal timing and type of intervention.
He specializes in orthopedic trauma and reconstructive surgery, using advanced techniques learned through his fellowship training to treat complex shoulder injuries and post-traumatic complications. His outstanding patient care is supported by his magna cum laude education at Georgetown University and residency at the Rothman Institute in Philadelphia, where he received the Chilton Award.
Frequently asked questions about shoulder dislocation treatment
How long does it take to recover from a dislocated shoulder?
Recovery from a first-time dislocation treated conservatively typically takes 6 to 12 weeks before returning to normal daily activities. Return to contact sports may take 3 to 6 months depending on the extent of soft tissue damage and how quickly strength and stability are restored. Surgical recovery timelines vary by procedure.
Should I have surgery after my first shoulder dislocation?
Not always, but for young athletes under age 25 who want to return to contact sports, early surgical stabilization significantly reduces the risk of recurrence. Dr. Bercik evaluates each patient individually, considering age, activity level, bone loss on imaging, and the degree of soft tissue damage before making a recommendation.
What is the difference between a Bankart repair and a Latarjet procedure?
A Bankart repair reattaches the torn labrum to the glenoid rim and is best suited for patients with intact bone and a first-time or low-recurrence dislocation. The Latarjet procedure transfers bone to the glenoid socket and is preferred when significant bone loss is present, when a prior Bankart repair has failed, or when the patient has a high risk of re-dislocation due to their sport or anatomy.
Can a dislocated shoulder heal without surgery?
Many patients recover well from a first-time dislocation without surgery, particularly older patients with lower activity demands. However, patients with significant labral tears, bone loss, or a pattern of recurrent dislocations are unlikely to achieve lasting stability without surgical intervention. Dr. Bercik reviews imaging and clinical findings to determine whether conservative care is a viable long-term option.
Where can I find a shoulder dislocation surgeon near Lancaster, PA?
Dr. Michael Bercik, who completed his fellowship in Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery and trained under renowned shoulder surgeon Dr. Gilles Walch, offers expert care to relieve pain and restore upper extremity function along the path to recovery.
Michael J. Bercik Jr., MD sees patients at orthopedic practice locations in Lancaster, Ephrata, and Mount Joy, Pennsylvania. He offers a full range of shoulder dislocation treatment options, from closed reduction and physical therapy to Bankart repair and the Latarjet procedure.
Schedule an evaluation for shoulder dislocation or other shoulder conditions in Lancaster with Michael J. Bercik Jr., MD, by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.
