Understanding Shoulder Dislocations Mitcham & Aspendale Gardens, Victoria
A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) is forced out of the glenoid socket in the shoulder blade. This may be a complete dislocation, where the bone is entirely out of place, or a subluxation of the shoulder, a partial dislocation.
The most common type is an anterior shoulder dislocation, where the head moves forward out of the socket. A posterior shoulder dislocation or even an inferior shoulder dislocation can occur, but less frequently.
Some dislocations are associated with complications like a Hill-Sachs lesion or Hill-Sachs deformity, where the bone is indented from impact against the socket, compromising joint stability long-term.
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Expert-Led Dislocated Shoulder Physiotherapy
At Full Speed Performance, our shoulder physiotherapy programs are developed and delivered by physiotherapists with decades of clinical experience and professional sports backgrounds.
We provide:
- Individualised treatment for dislocated shoulder.
- Advanced sports rehab protocols used in elite teams.
- Objective tracking via VALD performance testing.
- Integration with strength & conditioning specialists.
This expert-led, integrated approach ensures that every phase of your recovery is targeted, measurable, and aligned with your goals so that you return to activity with confidence and long-term shoulder stability.
Your Path Back Into Motion
Our management of shoulder dislocation follows a proven, four-phase rehab framework:
Protection Phase (0–2 Weeks): We support healing with a sling, manage pain, and begin gentle isometric activation. Patients are guided on safe sling use and advised not to attempt shoulder relocation without clinical supervision.
Movement Phase (2–6 Weeks): Mobility exercises, soft tissue release, and scapular control are introduced, along with early stability work and education on partial dislocation symptoms and prevention.
Strength Phase (6–12 Weeks): This phase focuses on progressive resistance training using bands and structured loading programs to rebuild shoulder strength and control.
Return to Sport/Activity Phase (12–24+ Weeks): We incorporate advanced exercises, functional drills, and stability training, with return-to-play decisions supported by VALD strength testing.
Injuries We Treat
Knee Injuries
Shoulder Injury
Spine & Neck
Hip & Groin
Hamstring
Lower Leg
Ankle & Foot
Functional
Special Conditions
Veteran Team That Listens
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Symptom Management
We carefully assess and address your specific pain points and discomfort
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Pathology Understanding
We analyse your injury through detailed assessment and imaging when necessary
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Objective Progress Tracking
We measure your improvement week-by-week using advanced testing technology
Book Your Dislocated Shoulder Treatment Today
Don’t let a dislocated shoulder limit your performance or quality of life. Get the expert treatment for a dislocated shoulder you deserve at Full Speed Performance.
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Our physiotherapy team has been trusted by
Our team at Full Speed Performance has supported everyone from elite athletes to everyday individuals, earning the trust of professional sports teams, orthopaedic specialists, and performance coaches. We deliver the same high-quality care to every client, whether you're aiming for peak performance or simply want to move pain-free.
FAQ
Recovery typically takes 6–12 weeks for a first-time dislocation managed conservatively. Recurrent dislocations or surgical cases may require 4–6 months or more, depending on the severity and rehab compliance.
Not always. Many first-time or mild dislocations respond well to physiotherapy. Surgery is usually recommended for repeated dislocations, severe instability, or associated structural damage like labral tears or Hill-Sachs lesions.
Treatment includes progressive phases: pain control, restoring movement, strengthening, and sport-specific retraining. Our programs use advanced techniques like VALD testing and are tailored to your sport and lifestyle.
Yes, with the right rehabilitation. We follow a structured return-to-sport protocol, including strength testing and functional drills, to ensure your shoulder is stable, strong, and ready for performance demands.
Common signs include clicking, weakness, a feeling of the shoulder "slipping out," or pain during overhead or dynamic movements. These symptoms indicate the need for ongoing physiotherapy or specialist review.

