A female high school volleyball player is sitting at the doctors office to get a look at her injury. Her physical therapist is working on her knee.
An 18-year-old male patient who is a lacrosse player suffers a first-time shoulder dislocation early in his freshman college season and elects to undergo nonoperative treatment. He asks about the most effective protocol for rehabilitation and return to play. Which of the following is recommended?
8 weeks of immobilization in a sling in external rotation followed by strength and motion therapy
There is no role for prolonged immobilization in his rehabilitation. It can lead to stiffness and does not decrease the risk of recurrent injury.
6 weeks of immobilization in a sling in internal rotation followed by strength and motion therapy
There is no role for prolonged immobilization in his rehabilitation. It can lead to stiffness and does not decrease the risk of recurrent injury.
Immediate return to play with immobilization between games
He should not return to play until he has pain-free range of motion and normal strength.
Return to play when pain resolves and full range of motion and normal strength are attained
He should return to play when he no longer has pain and has regained full range of motion and strength.
