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The Truth About Shoulder Dislocations: Why “Wait and See” Might Set You Back

  • June 2, 2025
  • Dean Phelps

Shoulder dislocations are one of the most common joint injuries, especially among young, active individuals. But what happens after the first dislocation? Will it heal on its own, or is surgery the best option? The research is clear: if you’re hoping to avoid a repeat injury, early intervention is key. Let’s break down the facts and debunk some common myths about shoulder dislocation management.

The Recurrence Problem: It’s Worse Than You Think

Many people assume that once a dislocated shoulder is popped back in, they’re good to go. However, research shows that up to 90% of young athletes experience recurrence after an initial dislocation. Even in the general population, recurrence rates hover around 50%.

Why does this happen? The shoulder joint is incredibly mobile, but that mobility comes at the cost of stability. When a dislocation occurs, the structures responsible for keeping the shoulder in place—like the labrum and ligaments—often suffer damage. Without proper treatment, the shoulder remains unstable, making future dislocations far more likely.

Why Conservative Treatment Isn’t Always the Best Option

Many doctors recommend a conservative approach for first-time dislocations: rest, immobilization, and rehab. While this might seem like a logical plan, the research suggests otherwise. The recurrence rate for non-surgical treatment is alarmingly high, particularly in young and active individuals.

A structured rehab program can help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, but it doesn’t repair torn ligaments or a damaged labrum—which are often the root cause of instability. This means that for many people, rehab alone is simply delaying the inevitable: another dislocation.

The Surgical Advantage: A Long-Term Solution?

On the flip side, surgical intervention—particularly in high-risk individuals—has been shown to dramatically reduce the recurrence rate. Research indicates that patients who undergo early stabilization surgery have much lower rates of re-dislocation compared to those who opt for conservative treatment.

Surgery aims to repair the torn structures and restore stability to the shoulder. Procedures like the Bankart repair directly address the damaged labrum and ligaments, making it a solid option for those looking to return to sports or an active lifestyle without the fear of recurrent dislocations.

 

Who Should Consider Surgery?

Not every dislocated shoulder requires surgery, but certain factors increase the likelihood that it’s the best course of action:

  • Age: Younger individuals, particularly those under 25, have a much higher risk of recurrence.
  • Activity Level: Athletes or those engaged in contact sports have an increased risk of repeated dislocations.
  • Structural Damage: If imaging reveals a labral tear or significant ligament damage, surgery might be the best option.
  • Multiple Dislocations: If you’ve dislocated your shoulder more than once, the likelihood of future dislocations skyrockets.

The Controversy: Is Surgery Being Underutilized?

Despite clear evidence supporting surgical intervention in high-risk individuals, many healthcare providers still default to conservative treatment. Why? Some argue that surgery is invasive and should be a last resort. Others believe that the cost and recovery time are deterrents for patients.

But here’s the harsh reality: repeated dislocations can lead to long-term joint damage, arthritis, and even permanent instability. Many patients who initially avoid surgery end up needing it later anyway—only now with additional damage that makes the procedure more complex.

Rehab Still Matters – But It’s Not Enough on Its Own

Rehabilitation is crucial for both non-surgical and post-surgical patients. Strengthening the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles helps stabilize the shoulder and can reduce the risk of re-injury. However, for those with significant structural damage, rehab alone cannot replace the function of torn ligaments and a damaged labrum.

Final Verdict: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

If you’ve dislocated your shoulder, the worst thing you can do is assume it will heal perfectly on its own. The research is clear: many people who take a “wait and see” approach end up back in the emergency room with another dislocation.

If you’re young, active, or have already experienced multiple dislocations, talk to one of our expert clinicians at Fighting Fit Physiotherapy about your options. Whether it’s surgery or a well-structured rehab plan, making the right decision early can prevent long-term complications and keep you doing what you love.

At Fighting Fit Physiotherapy, we specialize in post-injury rehabilitation and can help guide you through the best treatment options. Don’t let a shoulder dislocation dictate your future, take control of your recovery today!

 

Dean Phelps

Dean Phelps is the founding owner and senior physiotherapist at Fighting Fit Physiotherapy. He has a special interest in the highest physiotherapy care which focuses on progressive, results based treatments that ensures patients meet their goals, move optimally and enhance their health.

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At Fighting Fit Physiotherapy, we recognise the impacts that pain and dysfunction can have on one’s personal and professional life. We are committed as primary healthcare professionals to help our clients resume their lifelong pursuit of health and well-being.

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Brenda Samosa
05:52 07 Nov 24
I had a really bad shoulder and had been seeing a different physio for 3 months (from a different place) I got told Tyson was good. After just a few sessions the movement was coming back. I’m 66 and was worried I would have to stop surfing. But with a lot of help from Tyson I’m back in the waves ( thank you so so much)
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Great team, all friendly, super helpful and first class clinical advice and a big shout out to my Physio Noah with my shoulder issue
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Shout out to Max from fighting fit physio. He helped me out massively straight after shoulder surgery and back into work and sports in no time. Couldn’t recommend anyone better!
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08:27 14 Jul 24
Be AWARE they’ll immediately try to commit you to multiple follow up sessions after your initial consultation. This happened to me and then I later found out that as it just so happens, they have a cancellation policy that says you have to pay 100% of the consultation fee for cancelling. They failed to tell me this when they were pushy in committing me to 6 sessions after my consult, so that was a really nice little surprise.

I was already uncomfortable with how pushy they were in having me commit to so many sessions, so when I heard about the policy I just cancelled all together. So, I can’t speak further to the quality of their service throughout therapy phase. FYI this was also a few months ago now, it’s possible (though unlikely) they may have changed the policy. Just ask the question.
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Megan Shelley
06:51 03 May 24
Fighting Fit Physiotherapy is hands down the best physio I've encountered. Having tried multiple physios for various injuries, I always find myself coming back to them. Their expertise consistently exceeds expectations, helping me get back to my sport faster than I thought possible. Their personalized approach and attention to detail make all the difference. I could not recommend a better or more exceptional physio team!
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Gina Matthews
08:41 24 Mar 23
Can't recommend this place high enough. I was in so much pain with my knee an had been for months through advise an exercises I'm now looking forward to returning to gym an back riding my horses in endurance thank you so much
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Courtney Halse
01:36 29 Nov 22
Kyle was knowledgeable, personable and professional. He saw me through my second pregnancy and continued to work with me until 6 months post partum on issues with my back. Would recommend anyone to go and see him.

Also shout out to Georgia on the front desk. She makes you feel welcome and brings a sense of warmth to the place!
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Alli Davenport
08:07 04 Nov 22
After hip replacement surgery in February I wanted toget back into weight training legs, I started with Mitch 18 weeks ago and after a lot of hard work and sweat I am able to safely train again, I cannot thank Mitch enough for his support,encouragement and knowledge. The staff are friendly and helpful and I always looked forward to my session's
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Robert Parkinson
10:50 15 Aug 22
This is the second time I have been treated by the team at FFP.
As a health professional myself I have been impressed with the level of care I have received from all members of the team.
The personalised treatment and rehabilitation programs have produced excellent results and I have completed both programs pain free and feeling stronger than before my injuries.
During the program there was constant communication and follow up and they were very accommodating with my work schedule.
All in all it was a very holistic experience and I would highly recommend the service.
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Kiri Canavan
07:30 08 Jun 22
Tyson was amazing! We came up with an 8 week plan at my first consultation with weekly check ins and updates to exercises. 8 weeks later, I am pain free and able to train harder than ever. Highly recommend and the staff are all fantastic and super accomodating!

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Fighting Fit Physiotherapy Nerang Gold Coast

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call 0402 938 661

Fighting Fit Physiotherapy provides the ultimate physiotherapy experience! No matter what type of injury or condition you suffer, we strive for all our patients to be ‘fighting fit’ and achieve peak performance in their sport and everyday life.

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Fighting Fit Physiotherapy Nerang Gold Coast

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GOLD COAST PHYSIO

Fighting Fit Physiotherapy provides the ultimate physiotherapy experience! No matter what type of injury or condition you suffer, we strive for all our patients to be ‘fighting fit’ and achieve peak performance in their sport and everyday life.

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