Which intervention is most appropriate for a patient recovering from a shoulder dislocation during the initial healing phase?

Which intervention is most appropriate for a patient recovering from a shoulder dislocation during the initial healing phase?

• A. Full range of motion exercises
• B. Strength training for the rotator cuff
• C. Immobilization in a sling
• D. Heat therapy to increase circulation

Answer: (C)

The most appropriate intervention for a patient recovering from a shoulder dislocation during the initial healing phase is immobilization in a sling. Following a shoulder dislocation, the joint is typically unstable and vulnerable to re-injury. The initial healing phase often involves significant inflammation and pain, which immobilization helps to alleviate by stabilizing the shoulder and preventing excessive movement that could hinder recovery. Using a sling not only provides support to the affected shoulder but also allows for rest, which is crucial during the early stages of rehabilitation. This rest period is essential for allowing the soft tissues, including ligaments and muscles, time to heal and regain their integrity. Other options, such as full range of motion exercises or strength training for the rotator cuff, would not be appropriate at this stage because they could exacerbate the instability and lead to further damage. Heat therapy may also not be advisable in the initial phase due to the potential for increasing inflammation and swelling. Thus, immobilization in a sling serves as the foundational step to ensure proper healing before progressing to more active rehabilitation interventions.

The most appropriate intervention for a patient recovering from a shoulder dislocation during the initial healing phase is immobilization in a sling. Following a shoulder dislocation, the joint is typically unstable and vulnerable to re-injury. The initial healing phase often involves significant inflammation and pain, which immobilization helps to alleviate by stabilizing the shoulder and preventing excessive movement that could hinder recovery.

Using a sling not only provides support to the affected shoulder but also allows for rest, which is crucial during the early stages of rehabilitation. This rest period is essential for allowing the soft tissues, including ligaments and muscles, time to heal and regain their integrity.

Other options, such as full range of motion exercises or strength training for the rotator cuff, would not be appropriate at this stage because they could exacerbate the instability and lead to further damage. Heat therapy may also not be advisable in the initial phase due to the potential for increasing inflammation and swelling. Thus, immobilization in a sling serves as the foundational step to ensure proper healing before progressing to more active rehabilitation interventions.