How is a shoulder dislocation typically reduced?

Depends...: The way that shoulders are reduced is dependent on the direction it has dislocated. Many shoulder dislocations will reduce spontaneously as your are moving around on your way to the emergency room. If the shoulder is still dislocated in the emergency room, the reduction maneuver chosen by the doctor will be based on the xray findings.

Various: There are a number of maneuvers that can reduce a dislocation, often in combination with some sedative/relaxer/pain med. Usually pulling on the arm with some counter-traction is sufficient. Xrays are usually needed afterward to check the status of any fractures.

Sedation.: Usually in an emergency room you would be sedated and a doctor would then skillfully manipulate (reduce) the dislocation (put it back in place).