Réhabital
Shoulder Instability and Dislocation Treatment
A shoulder that dislocates, subluxes or simply feels unsafe can regain dependable stability through targeted motor control and strengthening work, often without surgery.
Book an AppointmentUnderstanding This Condition
The shoulder trades stability for range, so it depends heavily on muscles to stay centred. We distinguish traumatic instability, after an anterior dislocation and often with a labral lesion, from atraumatic instability linked to hypermobility or poor muscular control. The two are managed differently: the first needs initial protection then rigorous strengthening, the second needs prolonged motor control work.
Common Symptoms
Common Causes
Traumatic anterior dislocation
A fall or blow in abduction and external rotation stretches the capsular structures.
Ligament hypermobility
Constitutional laxity makes the joint reliant on muscular control.
At-risk sports
Volleyball, swimming, hockey and contact sports load the shoulder in vulnerable positions.
Scapular dyskinesis
A shoulder blade that does not follow the arm reduces joint congruence.
Our Treatment Approach
After an acute episode we protect the shoulder for a few weeks, then rebuild active stability. The programme emphasises the rotator cuff, especially external rotators, scapular control (serratus anterior, lower trapezius) and closed chain proprioception. We then progress into increasingly provocative positions, up to sport specific and rapid loading drills. In hypermobile patients the focus is endurance and precision of control rather than heavy loads. Osteopathy mobilises the thoracic spine and ribs to give the scapula a stable base.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
A twelve to sixteen week programme after a first dislocation, longer for contact athletes. Each stage is cleared with functional testing.
At-Home Self-Care Tips
- Avoid apprehension positions during the early phase.
- Do external rotation work three to four times weekly.
- Strengthen the back and thoracic region too.
- Return to contact sport only after clinical clearance.
- Do not keep the shoulder immobile for too long.
Prognosis & Recovery Timeline
Recurrence risk is high in contact athletes under 25 and lower after 30. Rigorous strengthening clearly reduces recurrence.
When to See Us at Réhabital
Come in after any dislocation as soon as immobilisation ends, or if your shoulder repeatedly feels unsafe.
Why Réhabital Clinic
We clearly separate traumatic from atraumatic instability, because they are not rehabilitated the same way.
Recommended Services for This Condition
Our Core Treatments in Côte Saint-Luc
Related Conditions
Why Choose Réhabital?
Frequently Asked Questions
Address
D4-5800 Cavendish Blvd
Côte Saint-Luc, QC H4W 2T5
Phone
(438) 842-3550Hours
Mon–Fri: 10AM–8PM
Sun: 10AM–4PM
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