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Risk depends on age, injury type, sports activity and structural damage.
Shoulder Arthroscopy
Recurrent Shoulder Dislocation and Labral Repair
5 min read
Understand repeated shoulder dislocation, labral injury, instability and arthroscopic treatment planning.
Written byJayam Hospital Orthopaedic Team
Medically reviewed byDr. Aravind Ravichandran, M.S. Ortho., FIAS (ISAKOS)
Last reviewed25 September 2026
Why repeated dislocation matters
A shoulder that dislocates repeatedly can damage the labrum, capsule and bone. Younger active patients may face repeated instability during sports, sleep or daily movements.
Early assessment helps identify whether physiotherapy alone is reasonable or whether surgical stabilisation should be discussed.
Arthroscopic stabilisation
Selected patients with labral tears may be treated with arthroscopic repair. The procedure aims to restore stability, but the right operation depends on bone loss, injury pattern and activity level.
Imaging and examination are important because not all dislocations are the same.
Return to activity
Rehabilitation after stabilisation is gradual. Patients usually progress from sling protection to movement, strengthening and sport-specific activity when cleared.
This article is for patient education only. Diagnosis, treatment choice and surgery suitability must be decided after consultation, examination and required investigations.
FAQs
Common questions
Can physiotherapy prevent recurrence?
Physiotherapy helps strength and control, but some recurrent instability cases need surgical discussion.
Is arthroscopy enough for all cases?
No. Cases with significant bone loss may need different procedures.
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