What should a Wilderness First Responder (WFR) do to manage a dislocated shoulder in the wilderness?

When managing a dislocated shoulder in the wilderness, the focus is on reducing the dislocation, which means returning the humeral head to its normal position in the glenoid cavity. This is typically done through a series of specific maneuvers designed to realign the joint while minimizing further injury and discomfort to the patient.

Reducing the dislocation is a critical step because it can relieve pain, restore function, and reduce the risk of complications such as damage to the surrounding ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels. In a wilderness setting, where immediate medical assistance is not available, performing this procedure can prevent further damage and stabilize the shoulder until the patient can receive definitive care.

Choosing to simply use a splint, apply ice, or wait for evacuation does not address the immediate need to manage the shoulder's dislocation effectively. These actions alone may provide temporary comfort but do not resolve the underlying problem. Immediate treatment to reduce the dislocation is necessary for optimal recovery and to facilitate the patient's ability to stay mobile until evacuation is possible.