Why should I not move a dislocated arm?

You should never attempt to move or "pop back" a dislocated arm because it can cause severe damage to nerves, blood vessels, ligaments, and bones, leading to increased pain, muscle spasm, and complicating professional reduction.

What are the common signs of a dislocated arm?

Signs of a dislocated arm include severe and persistent pain, visible deformity, inability to move the arm, rapid swelling and bruising, and potentially numbness or tingling in the arm, hand, or fingers.

What immediate steps should be taken for a dislocated arm?

If you suspect an arm dislocation, immediately immobilize the arm in a position of least pain, apply ice (wrapped in cloth), and seek urgent medical attention; do not attempt to move or reduce the arm yourself.

How is a dislocated arm treated by medical professionals?

Medical professionals will diagnose a dislocated arm with X-rays to rule out fractures, then perform a "reduction" (repositioning the joint) under sedation or anesthesia, followed by immobilization in a sling and a structured rehabilitation program.

Can I move my arm if it is dislocated?

No, you should absolutely not attempt to move a dislocated arm. Doing so can cause significant further damage to nerves, blood vessels, ligaments, and even bones, complicating treatment and prolonging recovery.

The Immediate Answer: Immobilize and Seek Help

When an arm, most commonly the shoulder joint, is dislocated, it means the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) has been forced out of its socket (the glenoid fossa of the scapula). This is a severe injury that requires immediate medical attention. Your primary action should be to immobilize the arm and transport the individual to an emergency medical facility.

Understanding Shoulder Dislocation

The shoulder is the body's most mobile joint, a ball-and-socket articulation that allows for a wide range of motion. This mobility, however, comes at the cost of stability. The joint is primarily stabilized by a complex network of ligaments, the joint capsule, and the muscles of the rotator cuff. A dislocation occurs when a significant force, often from a fall, direct impact, or extreme rotation, displaces the humeral head completely from the glenoid socket. This event inevitably causes acute pain, disruption of joint integrity, and potential damage to surrounding soft tissues.

Why Movement is Contraindicated

Attempting to move or "pop back" a dislocated arm is highly dangerous and can lead to severe complications. Here’s why:

Nerve Damage: The brachial plexus, a network of nerves that controls sensation and movement in the arm and hand, runs in close proximity to the shoulder joint. Attempting to move a dislocated arm can stretch, compress, or even tear these delicate nerves, leading to temporary or permanent numbness, weakness, or paralysis.
Blood Vessel Damage: Major blood vessels, such as the axillary artery and vein, also pass through the shoulder region. Forcing movement can damage these vessels, potentially causing internal bleeding or compromising blood flow to the arm and hand.
Further Soft Tissue Damage: The ligaments and joint capsule that stabilize the shoulder are already stretched or torn during a dislocation. Uncontrolled movement can exacerbate these tears, leading to increased pain, swelling, and chronic instability. Tendons of the rotator cuff muscles can also be damaged.
Bone Fractures: A dislocated shoulder can sometimes be accompanied by a fracture of the humeral head (e.g., a Hill-Sachs lesion) or the rim of the glenoid (e.g., a Bankart lesion). Attempting to move the arm when a fracture is present can displace bone fragments, worsen the fracture, and make surgical repair more complex.
Increased Pain and Muscle Spasm: Any attempt to move the joint will elicit severe pain, causing surrounding muscles to spasm and tighten, which further complicates the professional reduction process.
Impede Professional Reduction: Uncontrolled movement can make the dislocation worse, potentially making it more difficult for medical professionals to safely and effectively reduce (reposition) the joint.

Recognizing a Dislocation

It's crucial to be able to identify the signs of a dislocated arm:

Severe Pain: Intense, immediate, and persistent pain in the shoulder and arm.
Visible Deformity: The shoulder may appear visibly out of place, with an abnormal contour or a bulge where the humeral head should not be. The arm may look longer or shorter than the uninjured arm.
Inability to Move: The individual will typically be unable to move the arm from the injured position, often holding it protectively against their body.
Swelling and Bruising: Rapid onset of swelling and bruising around the joint.
Numbness or Tingling: Sensations of pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in the arm, hand, or fingers may indicate nerve involvement.

Immediate Steps After a Dislocation

If you suspect an arm dislocation, particularly of the shoulder, follow these crucial steps:

Do NOT Attempt to Move or Reduce the Arm: This is the most critical instruction. Resist any urge to "pop it back in."
Immobilize the Arm: Gently support the arm in the position of least pain. Use a sling, a pillow, or even a shirt to prevent any movement. The goal is to keep the joint as still as possible.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Transport the individual to the nearest emergency room or call for emergency medical services.
Apply Ice: If possible, apply an ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) to the affected area to help reduce swelling and pain. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
Pain Management: Do not administer oral pain medication if the person is going to need sedation for reduction at the hospital.

Professional Medical Intervention

Upon arrival at a medical facility, the individual will undergo a thorough assessment:

Diagnosis: X-rays will be taken to confirm the dislocation and, critically, to rule out any associated fractures. Sometimes, an MRI may be used to assess soft tissue damage.
Reduction: Once confirmed, a medical professional will perform a "reduction," which is the process of gently manipulating the humeral head back into the glenoid socket. This is usually done under sedation or general anesthesia to relax the muscles and minimize pain.
Post-Reduction Care: After successful reduction, another X-ray will be taken to confirm proper alignment. The arm will be immobilized in a sling for a period, typically a few weeks, to allow the capsule and ligaments to heal. Pain medication will be prescribed as needed.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Once the initial healing phase is complete, a structured rehabilitation program under the guidance of a physical therapist is essential. This program will focus on:

Restoring Range of Motion: Gradually regaining full, pain-free movement.
Strengthening: Building strength in the rotator cuff and other shoulder stabilizing muscles.
Proprioception and Stability Training: Re-educating the joint on its position in space and improving dynamic stability to reduce the risk of future dislocations.
Gradual Return to Activity: A carefully phased return to daily activities, work, and sports.

Prevention

While not all dislocations can be prevented, especially those from traumatic accidents, strengthening the shoulder's supporting musculature, improving joint proprioception, and using proper technique in sports and activities can help reduce the risk.

Conclusion

A dislocated arm is a serious injury that demands immediate and proper management. The most critical takeaway is to never attempt to move or reduce a dislocated arm yourself. Prioritize immobilization of the injured limb and prompt professional medical attention to ensure the best possible outcome and prevent further, potentially permanent, damage.

Dislocated Arm: Why You Should Never Move It, What to Do, and Recovery