I've had shoulder instability for a little over a year and physical therapy hasn't helped. should i get surgery?

Yes: You should see an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in shoulders and be evaluated.

Not necessarily: There are many factors to consider before deciding on surgery. The frequency and mechanism of dislocation, initial cause of instability, type of therapy performed can all play a role in deciding whether surgery is necessary. I would recommend evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon. He/she can help develop a treatment plan that may not necessarily involve surgery.

Yes.: If your shoulder is recurrently dislocation, despite physical therapy, and at your age, you should consider shoulder stabilization surgery.