Shoulder Instability & Dislocation

A first-time shoulder dislocation does not always require immediate surgery. Initial management typically involves reduction, short-term immobilization in a sling, and targeted physical therapy to strengthen rotator cuff and scapular stabilizer muscles. However, young, active patients and athletes face a significantly higher risk of recurrent dislocation and may benefit from early surgical stabilization.

Modern arthroscopic Bankart repairs achieve a success rate over 90% in suitable candidates. Recurrence risks are minimized by selecting the correct procedure based on bone loss assessment, using strong suture anchors, and strictly adhering to post-operative rehabilitation protocols without returning to contact sports prematurely.

Recurrent dislocation occurs because the initial injury often causes structural damage, such as a tear of the anterior glenoid labrum (Bankart lesion) or stretching of the joint capsule. Once this structural bumper is damaged, muscle strength alone cannot prevent the shoulder from slipping out during passive positioning or sleep.

Return to full sports participation follows a structured, criteria-based rehabilitation timeline. Light non-contact training and gym conditioning begin around 3 months, heavy overhead weightlifting at 4 to 6 months, and full clearance for contact sports, martial arts, and competitive games is typically achieved between 6 to 9 months post-operatively.

Arthroscopic Bankart repair reattaches the torn labrum and tightens the capsule using keyhole techniques, suitable for patients without significant bone loss. The Latarjet procedure is an open bone-block reconstruction used when there is substantial glenoid or humeral bone loss, or following a failed previous repair, providing robust dynamic stability.