Non-surgical options typically include a period of rest and immobilization using a sling for comfort. Medications may be used for a brief period of time to help relieve pain. Once the pain improves, physical therapy is started to help regain strength and range of motion. This is usually the first option in patients with a single dislocation or instability event, especially in older patients. However, if there are fractures or other injuries that are found on x-ray or MRI, surgical options may be recommended.

Surgical options are typically indicated in patients who have had multiple dislocations or instability events, or there are injuries to the tissues surrounding the shoulder that require surgery. Most commonly, these are injuries to the labrum.
In most cases, surgery can be performed arthroscopically, using a camera and very small incisions. This approach can be used to repair the labrum and help tighten the tissues surrounding the shoulder to prevent future dislocations. After surgery, you would be placed in a sling for a period of time, followed by physical therapy to regain strength, range of motion, and return to activity.
In some cases, particularly when the glenoid (socket) may be damaged or worn down from repeated dislocations, other types of surgery may be required. In these situations, the glenoid is reconstructed using bone, which requires a larger incision in the front of the shoulder. There are multiple procedures that can be performed, and each patient should have an individualized treatment strategy to address the unique pattern of injury.