What is the typical recovery time for a dislocated shoulder?

6 weeks: Generally, after 6 weeks of rest and therapy, you should be feeling better. There is a risk or re-dislocation, though, and if your shoulder still feels unstable after 6-12 weeks of rest and therapy, you should see an orthopedic surgeon about the possibility of arthroscopic surgery to repair the torn labrum in the front of your shoulder, which can cause persistent instability.

Rapid but variable: Most initial (1st time) shoulder dislocations, once reduced, allow for rapid rehabilitation and recovery. Motion and strength recovery, though variable, occurs progressively over the 3-6 weeks. Residual instability or a sense of impending recurrent dislocation (or subluxation) is age and activity dependent. Younger more active patients are more likely to complain of recurrence than older patients.

Recovery time varies: Recover time will vary depending on many factors including age, general health of the patient, infection control, smoker or not, blood sugar control, surgery or no surgery, the exact type of procedure, and post-operative and follow up care. Discuss it with your surgeon and get their opinion as to what they feel is a reasonable recovery time for you.