Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part B (2025)

Background: Anterior shoulder dislocation is the most common type of glenohumeral dislocation, with high recurrence rates particularly in young athletes. Traditional management involves prolonged immobilization for 4-6 weeks, which may contribute to stiffness and delayed recovery.
Purpose: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of early mobilization following reduction of anterior shoulder dislocation.
Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary Care Center from March 2023 to September 2024. Fifty patients (44 males, 6 females) aged 18-65 years with first-time anterior shoulder dislocation underwent closed reduction using Kocher's technique. Patients with Grade 0-1 anterior drawer test on day 3 post-reduction began structured early mobilization in three phases: Phase 1 (0-3 weeks) pain-free passive ROM and isometric exercises, Phase 2 (3-5 weeks) submaximal strengthening, and Phase 3 (6+ weeks) advanced strengthening. Primary outcomes were assessed at 6 months using shoulder range of motion and Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS).
Results: Mean age was 36 years (range 18-65). Excellent functional outcomes were achieved: 40 patients (80%) had abduction >140°, 38 patients (76%) achieved external rotation ≥60°, and 42 patients (84%) demonstrated no disability (OSS 40-48 points). Only 2 patients (4%) experienced recurrent dislocation due to secondary trauma. No significant complications occurred during early mobilization.
Conclusions: Early mobilization initiated on day 3 following anterior shoulder dislocation reduction, when shoulder stability is confirmed, resulted in excellent functional outcomes with minimal recurrence risk. This approach may prevent stiffness associated with prolonged immobilization while maintaining joint stability.