Recovery & Support for Shoulder Dislocation

At NYU Langone, physicians and physical therapists tailor a recovery plan to your injury and athletic goals and provide continued care as function is restored to your shoulder.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an important part of full recovery from any shoulder injury, whether or not you have had surgery. At NYU Langone’s Rusk Rehabilitation, a physical therapist works closely with you to build strength, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion in the injured shoulder.

As you heal during the first few weeks after an injury, a physical therapist can provide therapies such as therapeutic massage to reduce pain and swelling. Our team of physical rehabilitation experts also includes a licensed acupuncturist. Acupuncture may stimulate healing by increasing blood flow and prompting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers.

Gradually, a physical therapist incorporates exercises designed to tone and condition muscles in the shoulders, arms, and back. These muscle groups support the shoulder joint and provide it with support and range of motion. Strengthening and stretching these muscles also protects tendons and the labrum, and may help prevent future injury.

After muscle strength and range of motion in the shoulder are restored, your therapist can customize training to help you build the coordination, balance, and endurance required to return to your occupation or athletic activity.

You may need physical therapy for several months before the shoulder is fully healed. NYU Langone offers outpatient rehabilitation and can also make referrals to an in-network therapist outside of New York City. Incorporating the exercises taught by a therapist into a home exercise routine enhances the success of surgery.