What is a shoulder dislocation?
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, held in place by a rim of cartilage (the labrum) and ligaments. A dislocation often tears the labrum, which makes the shoulder unstable.
How it happens in sport
- Falling on an outstretched arm while diving
- A tackle or collision with the arm raised
- A forceful throw or overhead movement
Common in: Cricket fielding and diving, rugby, football goalkeeping, wrestling, basketball.
Symptoms
- Severe pain and a visibly wrong-looking shoulder
- Not being able to move the arm
- Afterwards, a feeling the shoulder could slip out
- Pain or apprehension when throwing or reaching overhead
How it's diagnosed
After the shoulder is put back in place, the surgeon examines its stability. An MRI shows any tear of the labrum, cartilage or bone.
Do I need surgery?
After a first dislocation, many people do well with rehab. If the shoulder keeps dislocating or feels unstable, or for young athletes in contact and throwing sports, keyhole stabilisation is often advised to prevent further damage.
Treatment options
- Rehab. Strengthen the muscles that hold the shoulder in place, then rebuild throwing and overhead movement.
- Keyhole stabilisation (Bankart repair). The torn labrum is reattached to the socket with small anchors.
- Other procedures. When there's bone loss, other operations may be needed. Your surgeon will explain.
Recovery timeline
- Weeks 0–4Sling, gentle movement as advised
- Weeks 4–12Full movement and strengthening
- Months 3–4Throwing and sport-specific drills
- Months 4–6Return to contact and throwing sports after a return-to-play check
Typical times. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will set yours.
Return to play at Recover
For cricketers, the last stage is graded throwing, bowling and diving practice in our nets. For other sports, the drills your sport needs, until the shoulder holds under load.
Cost and insurance in Gurugram
Keyhole shoulder stabilisation in Gurugram usually costs ₹1 – 2 lakh. Your exact quote comes in writing after the consultation.
Surgeons who treat this
- Dr Pranshul Bishnoi
MBBS · DNB (Orthopaedics) · ATLS · FIFA Diploma in Sports Medicine
- Dr Chandan Arora
MBBS · MS (Orthopaedics) · Shoulder Fellowship (Seoul)
Shoulder dislocation: FAQs
Will my shoulder dislocate again?
It can, especially in young athletes and in contact or throwing sports. Rehab lowers the chance; stabilisation surgery lowers it further for shoulders that keep dislocating.
Do I need surgery after a first dislocation?
Not always. Many people start with rehab. Your surgeon will look at your age, sport and the MRI before advising surgery.
When can I play after shoulder stabilisation?
Usually 4 to 6 months, after you pass a return-to-play check.
How much does shoulder stabilisation cost in Gurugram?
Usually ₹1 – 2 lakh. Your exact price comes in writing after the consultation.
General information, not medical advice. Your surgeon will advise on your own treatment. If you can't put weight on a limb, or have numbness or severe pain, go to an emergency department.