Are steroids good for a dislocated shoulder?
On One Hand: Treatment of a Dislocated ShoulderSteroids play no role in an acute dislocation of a shoulder. The initial treatment for any shoulder dislocation is realigning the shoulder to proper anatomic position. This is called a reduction. Usually before and after X-rays are taken to confirm position of the humeral head in the glenoid (realignment of the ball and socket). The shoulder is then placed in a sling for comfort and to immobilize the joint. A physician will then assess the nerves and vessels in the arm to monitor for any damage due to the trauma.On the Other: Steroids Could be BeneficialSteroid use would decrease the healing of the soft tissue structures that have been injured in the dislocation, but most practitioners would rather use a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) because it being a safer option. Steroids would decrease the inflammation in the shoulder, but patients tend to do very well on non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen and naproxen that
