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Shoulder pain - Management
How should I manage instability disorders?
- If acute dislocation is suspected, refer immediately to an Emergency Department.
- If there is a history of recurrent dislocation or instability:
- Advise avoidance of activities precipitating instability symptoms (e.g. bench pressing, kayaking, overarm throwing).
- Refer to physiotherapy for a stability/strengthening programme.
- Refer to an orthopaedic specialist.
- Consider early referral if:
- The person is younger than 30 years of age.
- The shoulder pain is particularly disabling (e.g. athletes involved in overhead sports, or people involved in heavy manual labour).
- Consider urgent referral if red flag features are present.
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